Single-Tooth Anesthesia
Some individuals may avoid going to the doctor or dentist because of a fear of needles. Oral health is of great importance, and there is now a new alternative option for these individuals when visiting their dental practitioner.
The STA, or single-tooth anesthesia system, helps to reduce anxiety about a dental procedure. Often referred to as The Wand, this dental injection is controlled by a computer which allows a slow and steady flow rate that is more comfortable for the patient. This allows the patient to feel more comfortable during the process.
The STA System
The STA system does not look like a typical needle. The wand is attached to a device that appears in many ways like a mini-computer tower, and the person handling the injection uses a foot pedal to control the dose. The computer controls the process, including alerting the user to whether or not they are holding the device correctly.
Thanks to the single-use tube, cartridge holder, and wand handpiece, there is no concern about germs being spread between patients. Using the first mode of the device, the dentist can increase the speed of the injection once the numbing process has begun, while the second mode provides audible cues to let the dentist be specific the needle has been placed correctly. A different needle is used when this mode is chosen, and a visual gauge is included.
The Benefits of The STA System
Dentists prefer to use single-tooth anesthesia as research has shown that it helps to decrease anxiety in patients more than other injection methods used today. Thanks to the ability of the machine to precisely control the pressure and flow rate of the injection, discomfort is reduced. This is of great importance in certain areas, such as the palate of the mouth, where tissue elasticity is lower, and injections lead to increased pain.
Some injection techniques tend to be more difficult when using a traditional needle, yet this isn’t the case when the single-tooth anesthesia system is used. These techniques are more effective and comfortable. Furthermore, the user finds the device easy to handle and very lightweight. The device may be rotated, and this allows the user to glide the needle into the desired location with ease.
Dental work takes less time when this option is selected. Moreover, the numbing takes less time, and patients return to their day without the fear of collateral numbing. The medication is injected right the first time, so patients don’t have to worry that multiple shots will be needed to get the pain block they need.
Dental phobia is a severe issue, as it is estimated that 30 to 40 million Americans avoid the dentist due to anxiety. Dental health is of great importance to a person’s overall health, and the STA system allows those who genuinely fear time spent in the dental chair an option to obtain the care they need. As a failure to get regular dental care is linked to early tooth loss and a higher risk of gum disease, the STA system is critical to ensuring people get treatment promptly.
Patient Feedback
Patients appreciate the STA system because they report feeling less discomfort. Some state they no longer have a fear of needles thanks to this device. Others even find that the system works better than regular injections because the area being treated is numbed more, and some state they no longer need IV sedation thanks to this device. Fear of the dentist is reduced when this option is offered, yet many Washington DC dentists fail to provide this type of injection. Thanks to the benefits of the STA system, however, many individuals state they won’t go to any dentist that doesn’t provide access to single tooth anesthesia.
If you wish to know more about the single-tooth anesthetic system and other advanced dental technologies, we offer our patients, please contact our office. We’ll be happy to answer any questions and address any concerns you have. Our goal is to ensure our comfort at all times while providing the highest level of care.