Braces Removal

It’s official. You have undergone months, or perhaps years, of orthodontic treatment in the form of dental braces and now the glorious moment has come to finally have them removed. Understanding the process that our doctors at Fairwood Dental Center will follow to remove your braces will help you better know what to expect when the time comes.

The removal of braces is a relatively quick and painless procedure and they must be removed in the reverse order from how they were applied. Therefore, the small elastic bands that are placed around each bracket to hold the wiring system in place must be taken off first. To do this, one of our doctors will use a small dental instrument with a hook to carefully remove each band.

After the elastic bands are removed, one of our doctors will use small pliers to gently detach the wire from the groove on top of each bracket and from the anchor bands that may be located on the back molars. He or she will then use special pliers to squeeze and remove each bracket individually. Because the separation of the bracket and tooth occurs at the point where the bracket met the adhesive keeping it in place, residue will remain on the tooth until it is polished and cleaned.

After the removal of your braces, our doctors will discuss the need for you to continue orthodontic treatment in the form of permanent or temporary retainers. To learn more about services provided at the practice, visit www.fairwooddental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Fairwood Dental Center in Renton, WA, call 425-271-7725.

Anxiolysis (IV) Sedation

For patients who suffer from dental fear or anxiety, local anesthesia is not enough to treat the psychological factors of their condition and a sedative is often needed to put them at ease during oral surgery. At Fairwood Dental Center, one of the sedation options we utilize is called anxiolysis (IV) sedation.

Anxiolysis refers to a drug-induced state during which patients respond normally to verbal commands. The definition for anxiolysis is simply, “a reduction in anxiety.” Although cognitive function and coordination may be impaired, ventilator and cardiovascular functions are unaffected. Anxiolysis is a form of oral sedation using a light sedative, such as valium. It is not as strong as oral conscious sedation, so it is recommended for those with mild to moderate anxiety. After one of our doctors administers anxiolysis sedation, you will remain conscious, but the edge will be taken off and the anxiety will fade away.  You will be able to talk and breathe on your own during the procedure as well.

If you have been delaying dental work due to anxiety, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about services provided at the practice, visit www.fairwooddental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Fairwood Dental Center in Renton, WA, call 425-271-7725.