Category: information

What Does Sedation Dentistry Feel Like?

If sedation dental care is recommended, you might wonder what does sedation dentistry feel like? 

Sedation dentistry feels relaxing. With sedation, you’ll likely nap through your dental visit.  After care, you are alert enough to walk out of our office with your companion. Then, you go home and rest comfortably. You can plan to be back to your normal routine the next day. 

Sedation dentistry is usually recommended for two reasons. First, levels of dental fear or anxiety are high for some people. Sedation dentistry can help you rest through treatment and get the care you need. Second, some treatments can be lengthy. For longer treatment visits, Dr. Frahm may recommend sedation care. It’s important to understand being sedated in our office is not like going under anesthesia for hospital surgery. 

You might ask, what does dental sedation feel like?

The short answer is that it depends on the type of sedation dentistry you’re having. Read below and learn how the different forms of sedation make you feel.

Dental Sedation Explained

Sedation dentistry is an effective way to minimize any anxiety or discomfort you may feel during dental treatment. Sedation dentistry comes in several forms. 

Your primary options for sedation dental care are likely: 

  • Mild: Nitrous oxide helps you relax through treatment. Nitrous oxide is commonly known as laughing gas.  It is the mildest sedative we provide. 
  • Medium: Medication, in pill form, can be prescribed by Dr. Frahm before your treatment visit.  With sedation medication, you will need a companion to drive and accompany you to and from your dental visit.
  • Strong: Intravenous sedatives are sometimes recommended to you if you struggle with significant anxiety, PTSD or have a medical condition that makes IV sedation a good choice. 

During sedation dental care, you will likely drift into a twilight state. You won’t remember much about your dental visit. In fact, many people say they have short term amnesia after sedation dental care. Usually, it’s considered a plus. 

When thinking about your sedation experience, it can be helpful to know the levels of sedation relaxation. Depending in your needs for care, and response to sedation medication, you can expect to enter one or more of these states of rest: 

  • Minimal sedation: Awake but relaxed. You can still respond to Dr. Frahm.
  • Moderate sedation: Slurring of words, not much is remembered.
  • Deep sedation: On the edge of consciousness to being unconscious. 

During your sedation care visit, our team of trained health care professionals monitors your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. Throughout your visit, we make sure you are safe and resting comfortably.

Types of Dental Sedation and How They Feel

When you ask, what does dental sedation feel like? The answer is it depends. The type of sedation you receive, duration of your visit, and preferences for care drive your experience.

Laughing Gas

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas is the least invasive, and most common, type. Most of us experience no side effects and can use it safely. Laughing gas is delivered via a mask that covers your nose. It is inhaled. The gas can be flavored. Many dentists give patients a choice of the type of scent they prefer. With laughing gas, you may become silly, giggly and have a sense of euphoria. The effects wear off almost immediately. After care, it helps to rest and recover for a few minutes before you leave our dental office. Unless otherwise directed, you should be able to drive yourself to and from your dental visit.

Oral Sedation

Also known as oral conscious sedation, is a sedative given in pill form. Usually, Dr. Frahm prescribes two doses. You take the first dose before your visit. Dr. Frahm may recommend a second dose once you arrive at our office for care. Oral conscious sedation is anti-anxiety medication that helps you deeply relax. You will probably feel drowsy when you take oral sedation medication but remain awake and conscious. 

Side effects of oral sedation include grogginess, and a dream state feeling. It can take a several hours for oral conscious sedation to wear off. Due to the time it takes to recover from sedation, you need someone to drive you to and from care. It is best if a companion can be present while you rest.  Dr. Frahm calls a few hours after your sedation dentistry visit to check on you.

IV Sedation

For people with severe dental anxiety, IV sedation is often recommended. It is also administered to patients who are undergoing dental surgeries. The medication is delivered through an intravenous needle in the arm and the dose is monitored throughout the procedure.

Slurred speech and memory loss are very common for IV sedation and will likely result in forgetting the entire procedure. The sedation is at a much deeper level than the other methods and keeps most patients on the edge of consciousness.

All IV sedation patients must have a companion to drive them to and from care, and stay with them after care for about 24 hours. 

Safe Dentistry for You

The type of sedation you choose depends on what ensures a safe and comfortable dental visit, and your overall health. As you can see, there are different ways you can feel depending on your needs. A sedative will make you feel drowsy but relaxed, have you feel like you’re in a dream, or forget the whole procedure entirely. 

Dr. Frahm is a gentle dentist, who created an office space design for calm and comfort. To put you at ease, we offer both oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide sedation dentistry. Dr. Frahm always discusses your options with you before treatment begins. For more information click the link below.

Dr. Sarah Frahm | Sedation Dentistry

When Going Through a Breakup, Seeking Support

As a result of the conclusion of a romantic relationship, it is natural to experience a series of feelings, including unhappiness, anger, and confusion. In spite of this, you do not have to go through the procedure of managing a break up by yourself. The act of looking for support can help you in processing your emotions and moving on in a manner that is healthy according to fantastic website.

When going through the process of processing emotions and proceeding in a healthy way after a separation, it is important to seek support.

The Role of Loved Ones and Family Members

Throughout this trying time, the capability to lean on pals, relative, and other liked ones can be invaluable sources of support. It is possible to receive the much-needed psychological boost that assists us in surviving the raw minutes that follow a break up by connecting to trusted people who are compassionate, non-judgmental, and helpful. If you have friends or brother or sisters who recognize with you, they might also be able to provide you with practical insights into the situation or assist you in seeing things from a various viewpoint according to lifemagazineusa.com/.

For example, your sister might suggest that you experiment with some brand-new pastimes or take part in activities that you find pleasurable. Taking your mind off of the separation and enabling you to practice some form of self-care is both possible with the help of this distraction.

Despite the fact that it is necessary to rely on other individuals for support, it is important to bear in mind that you must not put too much weight on their help. Because of this, they may feel pressured, and your relationships might be put under strain. Instead, you need to look for expert support, such as therapy or a support group, where skilled professionals can provide guidance and assistance. This will much better assist you accomplish a balance.

Throughout this tough time, it is important to keep in mind that there is no shame in asking for support or relying on individuals who are closest to you.

The majority of individuals, according to research study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology, start to feel much better eleven weeks after the end of a romantic relationship.
During their life time, nearly half of all adults will go through a minimum of one separation, as stated by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Although this may not work for everyone, a study that was released in the Archives of Sexual Behaviour discovered that participating in casual sexual activity after completion of a relationship has the possible to ease the negative sensations that are associated with the end of a relationship.

Recovery and Aftercare Following Endoscopic CSF Leak Repair

A woman using nasal drops.

What is Endoscopic CSF Leak Repair

Endoscopic CSF leak repair addresses the issue of cerebrospinal fluid leakage originating from a breach in the protective dura mater surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

A nasal endoscope is inserted inside to navigate the nasal passages to find the breach in the dura mater commonly found at the skull base.

Using small surgical tools,the identified breach in the dura mater is meticulously patched using an Alloderm graft and mucosal tissue from the nasal passages. 

Recovery and Postoperative Instructions

Following the surgical procedure,patients typically undergo a 1-2 night stay for rest and continuous monitoring. In rare instances,some may require the placement of a lumbar drain to prevent excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure within the spine.

Habits to Adopt for Optimal Healing

In the initial phase of recovery,patients are advised to adopt specific practices to facilitate healing and prevent undue pressure on the repaired dura mater:

Gentle Nasal Care:

  • Refrain from forceful blowing or wiping of the nose.
  • Avoid vigorous sniffing,promoting a gentle approach to nasal care.
  • Address persistent or worsening nosebleeds by sitting up and applying oxymetazoline spray as directed.

Medication Compliance:

  • Ensure adherence to prescribed medications until completion as part of the postoperative regimen.

First Week of Recovery

Nasal Moisturization:

  • Maintain nasal moisture using saltwater spray 3-4 times daily (unless instructed otherwise) during the first week.
  • Opt for rest while maintaining an upright posture during the day and sleep with the head slightly elevated for comfort.
  • Expect mild bloody nasal drainage during the initial 24-72 hours post-surgery,which is considered normal.

First 30 Days of Postoperative Care

Activity Limitations:

  • Refrain from lifting heavy objects,straining,or excessively bending over during the initial 30 days.
  • Utilize stool softeners to ease bowel movements and prevent straining.

Nasal Irrigation Caution:

  • Avoid forceful nasal irrigation techniques such as squeeze bottles or neti pots.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

In the postoperative period,promptly seek medical attention if experiencing the following:

  • Persistent nasal bleeding or unceasing clear nasal discharge.
  • Noticeable bruising or swelling around the eye region.
  • Sustained fever exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

To learn more click the link below.

Dr. Amy Anstead | Endoscopic CSF Leak Repair

How Gum Grafting Treats Receding Gums

For people with receding gums,gum grafts can treat the issue. Gum grafting to replace lost gum tissue is one of the most common procedures in the US.

Gum recession is a common problem. Yet,gum recession is not something you should ignore. That’s because gum recession can be the result or lead to health issues. Treatments such as gum grafting can repair your gums and prevent further harm. 

woman smiling.

What causes gums to recede?

Gum recession occurs when the tissue that surrounds your teeth wears away. Gums pull away from the tooth’s surface exposing enamel and the root. Receding gums cause gaps to form between teeth and the gum line. This creates space for bacteria to collect. Once harmful bacteria collect in gum pockets,your risk of tooth decay,sensitivity,and bone loss increases. 

 

There are a few factors that can cause gums to recede,including:

  • Genetic predispositions make some of us more susceptible to gum disease and recession.
  • Wear and tear associated with aging. 
  • Aggressive tooth brushing can cause tooth enamel to wear away and gums to recede. 
  • Advancing tooth decay and tooth loss increases your risk for gum recession. 
  • Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums. Over time,periodontal disease can destroy gum tissue and the supporting bones. 

Gum grafting effectively treats receding gums

Gum grafts treat gum recession by replacing the lost tissue around your teeth. When you restore the health of your gum tissue you improve your oral health.

If you think you have receding gums,make an appointment with Dr. Frahm. She will measure the pockets around your teeth to diagnose any gum problems. If your gum recession is in the early stages,she may recommend curettage periodontal treatment. Curettage is performed here,in our dental office,by Stacey who directs our clinical hygiene department. If surgical care is required to restore your dental health,Dr. Frahm will recommend a periodontal specialist.

Other advantages of gum grafting

Gum grafting gives you the best chance of treating advanced gum recession,gum disease,and improving your overall oral health. It also reduces your risk of additional cavities and decreases tooth sensitivity. According to the Cleveland Clinic,gum grafting has a treatment success rate of over 90%. 

It’s a plus that gum grafting improves the appearance of your smile. By evening out an uneven gum line gum grafts frame your teeth with symmetry. Most importantly,gum grafts cover exposed tooth roots. This reduces your risk for tooth loss and protects your teeth from decay. 

When gum grafting is required to treat receding gums due to periodontal disease,chances are good that your dental insurance will cover the procedure. Be sure to talk to your dental insurance provider to find out what’s covered and if there are any out-of-pocket expenses. You can also discuss payment options with our dental care team. 

Let our team of dental care experts help you attain your most vibrant smile. Please call 831-372-8011 today or click the link below to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sarah Frahm. We serve patients throughout the communities of Monterey,Carmel,and Pebble Beach. 

Dr. Sarah Frahm

Marken Law – Tips for Appearing in front of an ALJ

If you have been denied at your initial hearing,appealed in time (60 days),and then were denied at reconsideration – the road to receiving your Social Security Disability Benefits can look daunting,even impossible. It’s likely,you’ve appealed that decision,have waited multiple months,and the day has finally come to have your hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). What happens now? And importantly,what can you do to prepare?

The biggest problems facing claimants who are not represented by an ALJ are not understanding the hearing format and unaware of the medical and other evidence in their file!

Ensuring Your Medical File is Ready For Review

The single biggest obstacle is the medical file. When unrepresented it is YOUR responsibility to make sure your medical records have been properly submitted to the hearing office and have been placed in your electronic file for the judge to review. This is NOT Social Security’s responsibility. No records,or not an adequate file typically leads to frustration with the judges and a possible unfavorable decision for an otherwise great claim. How do you go about fixing this problem? When the hearing office schedules your hearing (typically more than 75 days out) they will mail you a CD with your file. You need to ACCESS this record and see what Social Security is MISSING from your medical record. Social Security must have records pertaining from your onset date to shortly before your hearing. The ALJ’s tasked to decide your case cannot award benefits if there are no medical records for the time in question. For example if you allege disability from 2016 but only have records beginning 2019,the judge WILL NOT find you disabled prior to the medical records on file! You can request your medical record from your providers at little or no cost to you directly from the provider. This then must be submitted NO LATER than 5 DAYS prior to hearing via fax,mail,etc. Do NOT bring records with you to the hearing unless you HAVE TO (i.e.,just received them).

The second biggest obstacle for unrepresented claimants is they are unaware of the hearing format. It is NOT to tell the judge what’s wrong and why they should find you disabled. The ALJ will ask you specific questions about your daily activities,where you worked and the reasons behind leaving work. It is not,in other words,an open forum for you to discuss your problems. It is detailed,specific and if you are not prepared the burden is on you,not the administration.

Other Tips for Your Hearing

We highly recommend you adhere to the following advice as well:

  • Don’t interrupt the judge.
  • Answer the judges specific question. A question about your past work is not a entry to discuss your back problems. The judge knows about your back problems,they want to know about the question they asked.
  • Come prepared with recent medical evidence already submitted well in advance.
  • Arrive early to your hearing. Most offices will screen you for drugs and weapons and have forms to fill out,do NOT BE ON TIME. ON TIME is LATE.
  • Dress comfortably but respectfully; no logos or political statements.
  • Show the judge respect. “Yes your honor” or “No your honor.” They are judges and expect to be treated respectfully. They are the sole decision makers of your claim,so it always helps to show respect.

If you’re interested in finding expert representation to claim your Social Security Disability Benefits,Marken Law Group,does not charge a fee unless you get the benefits you deserve. Click the link below for a free consultation!

Marken Law Group | No Benefits? No Fee.

Local Medical Marijuana News: Regulation Overview

Local medical marijuana news often highlights the complex and perplexing nature of the medical marijuana regulation. In addition to the strict requirements that providers must follow,potential patients may have to meet specific criteria to qualify for treatment. All products must be tested in an accredited laboratory before they are sold to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Labels must provide accurate information on the risks and benefits of the product as well as storage instructions to allow patients to make informed health decisions. These regulations protect consumers and providers alike,which makes them an invaluable tool for protecting patient safety.

Medical Marijuana Benefits for Local Patients

Medical marijuana’s ability to provide relief for a variety of physical and mental ailments is well known. However,its ability to meet individual needs has been overlooked. From chronic pain to mental health support,the therapeutic benefits of this natural alternative could provide local patients with significant respite from their suffering – if considered on an individual basis. Dosage and delivery methods must be tailored to each person in order for maximum benefit; by seeking professional help,those in need may find a viable solution.

Case Studies of Medical Marijuana in Local Communities

Astonishingly,medical marijuana has been found to have a positive effect on individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. A study in California showed that those who used cannabis reported lower rates of opioid use and fewer cravings for alcohol compared to patients not using medical marijuana. Furthermore,the same study revealed a decrease in hospital admissions due to opioid overdoses among those in the cannabis group. These results demonstrate that medical marijuana is an effective alternative to treat addiction and recover from substance abuse disorders.

As more research is conducted into medical marijuana’s effects,it is becoming increasingly clear that this natural remedy can provide relief from chronic pain while offering hope for those battling addiction. The evidence surrounding its local impact speaks volumes about how powerful this plant really is–its power to reduce suffering and offer healing capabilities should not be underestimated!

The Challenges Local Medical Marijuana Suppliers Face

The medical marijuana industry is no stranger to its difficulties. The federal government’s Controlled Substances Act prevents cannabis-related businesses from obtaining loans or bankruptcy protection. To finance their operations,companies must rely on high-interest venture capital investments or cash alone. Moreover,processors and manufacturers in the marijuana industry have to grapple with creating products that comply with various federal,state,and local regulations–products that must be dependable,safe,user-friendly,and feature proper labelling guidelines as well as specific dosages and active ingredients amounts. Thus requiring a specialized team of researchers and engineers for product quality assurance purposes.

5 Ways You Could Lose Your Disability Benefits

Most recipients of Social Security Disability benefits continue to receive payments without any issue,but it’s important to remember that disability payments continue so long as you meet the requirements. SSDI and SSI are never guaranteed to last forever and there are several ways for them to be suspended or terminated indefinitely. 

Before applying for social security disability benefits,it’s important to be aware of how they can be canceled. 

Medical Improvements SSI/DI

Social security disability beneficiaries are often approved due to a debilitating injury or a medical condition that prevents them from working,including psychiatric conditions. The Social Security Administration reviews medical beneficiaries every three to seven years to ensure their condition still entitles them to benefits,but if they determine you’re no longer disabled as defined by the SSA and have made enough of a medical improvement,you can lose your benefits. 

Returning to Work & SGA

When a beneficiary begins working again,the income derived from the job can cost them benefits if it exceeds “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). The SGA is determined by the Social Security Administration but follows certain guidelines. Essentially,SGA describes a level of work activity and earnings,considered substantial if it involves significant physical or mental activities. Gainful work activity is defined as work that is performed for pay or profit,the nature of the work is generally performed for work or profit,or is intended for profit. 

If returning to work,a beneficiary can lose their benefits by engaging in SGA. If you’re concerned about losing your benefits in this way,it’s important to talk with an SSI / SSDI attorney. 

Retirement Age & Disability Benefits

For SSDI beneficiaries that reach their full retirement age,they will likely see their disability benefits stop. Social Security retirement benefits and SSDI benefits cannot be issued together and once a person is eligible for retirement they are no longer eligible for their disability. Once retirement age is reached,the SSA will switch over from SSDI payments to your retirement benefits. 

Social Security Disability Benefits & Incarceration

If a person has been incarcerated at either a prison or other penal institution after being convicted of a crime,disability payments will cease until you’re released. It’s important to note that you’ll be eligible again after being incarcerated unless convicted of a felony. Some felony convictions will include a cessation of benefits and/or eligibility as well. 

SSI Asset Limits

If your income or assets rise above the limit for SSI or SSDI eligibility,your payments will cease and you’ll no longer be eligible whole earning too much income. How your income is earned isn’t relevant,unless already crossing the SGA threshold,but earning above the income limit will cost you your benefits. Some acquired assets and income types that count towards these limits include private pensions,spousal income,parental income,inherited assets,and alimony payments. It can be complicated and a complex issue to navigate as a number of factors can go towards crossing the asset limit. If you fear that you may lose your benefits for this reason,consult an experienced SSI or SSDI attorney to help you. 

Protecting Your Social Security Disability Payments

It’s important to know what can trigger your social security disability benefits to cease,especially as some of the reasons for their stopping can be a mistake and are avoidable. As mentioned a few times before,it’s important to consult with an SSI / SSDI attorney who has extensive experiencing protecting people from the cessation of benefits and the SSA itself. 

Here at Marken Law Group,we have a comprehensive understanding of social security benefits. We understand how stressful benefits can be and don’t want to add to your plate during this potentially stressful time. We have represented hundreds of claimants in Washington,Idaho,Montana,Oregon,and California to obtain what is rightfully theirs. We focus on your individual needs and bring our extensive experience to help guide you through. Partner with an experienced ally that is by your side from start to finish and have a qualified social security lawyer to help you.

Marken Law Group

The Advantages Of Composite Fillings Over Amalgam Filling

If you have a cavity or an old filling due for a replacement,you may wonder whether to opt for a composite or amalgam filing. How do you decide which is material is right for you?

The difference between composite and amalgam

Composite fillings are made of a mixture of liquid acrylic resin. They are reinforced with finely ground ceramic. Composite has many benefits. Its a non-toxic material that naturally bonds to your tooth structure. Composite makes teeth strong,durable,and less prone to breakage. Composite also provides a natural appearance,matched to the color of your teeth.

Amalgam fillings are also known as silver fillings. But they arent made of pure silver. Amalgam is a mix of metals including mercury,silver,tin,and copper. They are very strong and can last years. Amalgam fillings create two risks to your health. First,mercury can leak if an amalgam filling is compromised.,amalgam expands and contracts. Overtime it will fail. And as the name implies,these fillings are silver in color Amalgam does not match your natural teeth.

Which type of filling material should you choose?

Both composite and amalgam fillings are used to fill cavities. Choosing which material is right for you comes down to four considerations.

  1. Aesthetics. For a beautiful set of teeth composite fillings,are the right choice. They are matched to your tooth color and are indistinguishable from your existing teeth. Composite is always used for front teeth and other visible teeth. It is the best choice if you want all your teeth to be uniform in appearance.
  2. Durability. Both amalgam and composite are extremely strong materials. In recent years resins used in composite fillings have become stronger. Now a days composites and amalgam are equally durable.
  3. Biocompatibility. The body has natural reactions to materials that cause allergies and toxicities. Amalgam fillings contain mercury. According to the FDA,people with multiple amalgam fillings may have higher mercury levels. But the level is considered safe. Composite fillings,on the other hand are made of biocompatible materials. Biocompatible materials are non-reactive. These materials naturally adhere to the bodys DNA. The result is teeth that are five times stronger than natural teeth. For more information,read the report from the National Center for Biotechnology Information at the NIH.
  4. Cost. The cost of any dental treatment varies depending on insurance coverage. Both amalgam and composite fillings are usually covered by insurance plans. Always check with your insurance company when in doubt. And dont forget,our practice offers financing and cash discounts.

If you are looking to replace old amalgam fillings,or would like a more aesthetically-pleasing,natural-looking smile,were available to talk about your options. 

Book Your Composite Fillings Appointment Today!