Dentistry With a Gentle Touch By Taylor Smith
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any people live in fear of going to the dentist and put off receiving necessary procedures simply due to high levels of anxiety. The good news is that many dentists in New Jersey cater to those with dental anxiety by providing sedation treatments. In order to qualify for treatment, a patient must be in good health with no evident heart problems. A diagnostic evaluation is necessary prior to the procedure. There are many forms of sedation including oral sedation, IV sedation, and/ or nitrous oxide gas. Dr. Haddad of Advanced Dental Arts in Somerset, NJ delivers oral sedation in the form of prescription medications like Valium, with the requirement that patients receive transportation to and from the office. The benefits of oral sedation are that the patients can achieve a relaxed state, enabling them to receive multiple procedures, from routine cleanings to cosmetic treatments, with no discomfort. It is important to note that with oral sedation, a patient remains conscious throughout the entire procedure. Dental anxiety is typically caused by a history of negative dental experiences and, in extreme cases, can develop into a phobia. Such patients will likely suffer from rapid heartbeat, sweating, loss of sleep, and feelings of panic. Dr. Kirk Huckel of Princeton Center for Dental Aesthetics is the only dentist in Princeton with an advanced New Jersey State License for oral conscious sedation. The most anxious patients may initially require a mild sedative for a simple routine cleaning, but according to Dr. Huckel, “eventually, over time, their anxiety will lessen.” He goes on to state, “In addition to phobic patients, many people with busy schedules use oral conscious sedation as a means of getting many procedures done at one time.” Thus, if you find yourself avoiding the dentist’s office, year after year, oral conscious sedation may be the solution.
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Dr. Huckel of Princeton Center for Dental Aesthetics specializes in the treatment of dental anxiety. (Photo Credit: Princeton Center for Dental Aesthetics)
Contact: Dr. Joseph Haddad Advanced Dental Arts 738 Easton Avenue Somerset, NJ 732.545.8111 www.drjosephhaddad.com
Dr. Kirk Huckel Princeton Center for Dental Aesthetics 11 Chambers Street Princeton, NJ 609.643.0108 https://princetondentist.com
PRINCETON MAGAZINE october 2016
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