Premedication

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“Premedication” is the word for medicines given to patients before they go to the dentist.

There are three main uses for premedication:  preventing infection, minimizing pain and reducing anxiety.  In our initial comprehensive examination appointment, we can discuss whether or not you are a good candidate for premedication.

Prevent Infection

Sometimes these meds are antibiotics used as protection against infection.  These are often used for people who have artificial joints or certain heart conditions. 

Minimize Pain

Here is a simple example of pain reliever premedication.  If you ever take a pain reliever like aspirin, Tylenol, or Advil, your body doesn’t know if you took it for a headache, arthritis, or because you burned your finger on a hot frying pan.  The pain reliever just makes it so your brain doesn’t recognize the pain.  So if you took a couple of Advils before you leave home, you could actually make your dental visit more comfortable.  (We should discuss with you the exact dose and correct medicine to use ahead of time).

Reduce Anxiety

The same system works for anxiety.  By taking an anti-anxiety premedication, patients find it takes the edge off going to the dentist. There are many strengths of anti-anxiety premedications available.  For patients with more severe cases of anxiety, premedication along with sedation dentistry is often suggested.

Feel free to discuss these ideas with us at your next examination or consult.

We can help take the fear out of going to the dentist.