Dear Reader...I found this definition of sedation dentistry in Wikapedia....This may be a good intro for those wondering what sedation dentistry is all about....Please call us at 781-245-7714 if this may be for you...Thank you for your time...Jeffrey B. Kravitz DDS

Sedation dentistry refers to the use of pharmacological agents to calm and relax a patient prior to and during a dental appointment. The pharmacological agents usually belong to a class of drugs called sedatives, which exert their action by depressing the central nervous system, specifically those areas concerned with conscious awareness.
There are different degrees of central nervous system depression, each corresponding to a level of relaxation which ranges from minimal, moderate, to deep sedation. In general, minimal sedation refers to a patient who has reduced anxiety but is readily responds to verbal or physical stimulation. With moderate sedation the patient is even more relaxed, and will respond to purposeful stimulation. In deep sedation, the patient may not exhibit any signs of consciousness and therefore be unresponsive to stimulation.
Sedation by pharmacologic methods may be obtained by two general routes. The enteral route involves absorption of medication across enteric membranes which line the alimentary canal from the oral cavity, through the digestive tract, ending in the rectum. This route includes medications that are either swallowed, absorbed through the mucosa of the oral cavity, or inserted rectally. The parenteral route involves the administration of sedative drugs other than absorption across enteric membranes (outside of the alimentary canal). These methods include intravenous, inhalation, intramuscular, and submucosal administration, among others.

Education

Sedation dentistry courses are available across North America at both dental schools and private organizations. Continuing education courses in sedation dentistry are available for both general and pediatric dentists.

Benefits

Sedation dentistry has become very popular because it offers several benefits for both the patient and the dentist. For some patient groups, the use of sedation dentistry is actually the only way that they can get the dental care they need and improve their dental health. Dental sedation can offer:^[1]

• Patient relaxation
• Increased comfort
• Movement control
• Patient co-operation
• Control of gag reflex
• Little or no memory of treatment
• Time saving - Fewer appointments needed

Wakefield dentist, Dr. Jeffrey B. Kravitz, right, recently presented scholarships to two Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School graduating students during an awards ceremony at the school. Northeast Metro Tech Principal Ted Nickole, left, accepted the scholarships on behalf of Gabriella Villarroel and Natalia Tomayo, both of whom participated in the school’s Dental Assisting program and were selected to receive the scholarships based on essays they wrote about why they chose to pursue a career in dentistry.

Dr Kravitz Meets The Italian Consulate General for Boston

Jeffrey B. Kravitz DDS

Wakefield dentist Jeffrey B. Kravitz, DDS, left, and his wife Anita, second from left, had an opportunity to talk to Boston’s General Consul of Italy, Giuseppe Pastorelli, second from right, during the Festival Italia buffet dinner at the Sheraton Colonial. Joining them is Wakefield Event Planning Chairman Paul DiNocco.
In addition to attending the dinner, Dr. Kravitz was a Region Sponsor at Saturday’s Festival Italia.

Help is here for snorers and sleep apnea sufferers

Wakefield dentist Jeffrey B. Kravitz, D.D.S. is helping snorers and sleep apnea suffers have a restful night’s sleep often without the use of the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices.

Dr. Kravitz recently received specialized training to learn more about oral appliances that are worn during sleep to prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat so that the airway stays open during sleep.

Snoring occurs when the structures in the throat are large and when the muscles relax enough to cause the airway to narrow and partially obstruct the flow of air. As air tries to passes through these obstructions, the throat structures vibrate causing a noise referred to as snoring. Large tonsils, a long soft palate and uvula, and excess fat deposits contribute to soft tissue narrowing.

“The oral appliances promote adequate air intake and help to provide normal sleep in people who snore and have sleep apnea,” Dr. Kravitz said. “They can be used alone or in conjunction with other means of CPAP therapy, considered to be the mainstay of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. The CPAP machines are sometimes rejected by users because of their cumbersome and intrusive nature.”

             According to Dr. Kravitz, there are more than 80 different types of dental devices for snoring and sleep apnea available to specially trained dentists like him who have received extensive training to treat sleep disordered breathing. Oral appliances work by repositioning the lower jaw, tongue, soft palate and uvula; stabilizing the lower jaw and tongue; and increasing the muscle tone of the tongue.

Dr. Kravitz’ education and training in oral appliance therapy enables him to determine which one is best suited for a specific dental and/or medical condition.

Dr. Kravitz and his staff work closely with physicians as part of the medical team in the diagnosis, treatment and on-going care of the patient. Oral appliance therapy can take from several weeks to several months to complete, and some insurance plans may cover up to half of the cost of the device.

Before oral appliance treatment, all patients must undergo a sleep study or other sleep apnea testing. Determination of proper therapy can only be made by joint consultation of the office and the patient’s sleep physician.

“Many CPAP users have difficulty wearing their medically prescribed CPAP because it is poorly tolerated or simply rejected due to its cumbersome and intrusive nature,” Dr. Kravitz added. “That’s why we are excited to be able to offer this treatment option to our patients.”

For more information about oral appliances for sleep disorders, or any of the other services offered by Dr. Jeffrey B. Kravitz and his staff, please call the office at 781-245-7714 or visit the website www.wakefieldfamilydentist.com.

Dr. Kravitz Participates in Yearly Bike-a-thon

(Wakefield, MA) – Wakefield dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz, has issued a challenge to fellow medical professionals to participate in the 7th Annual Reid’s Ride Bike-a-thon on July 17th 2011, a 28-mile bike ride to benefit the Reid R. Sacco Memorial Foundation.
Reid died on April 16, 2005 after a gallant two-year battle with cancer. A graduate of Lynnfield High School, Class of 2003, Reid was an honor student and national level swimmer, co-founder of the Reading-Peabody Cooperative Swim Team and a member of the North Shore YMCA Sharks. As a talented and competitive swimmer, Reid was named as a Boston Globe All-Scholastic in Men’s Swimming and was named to its 2003 All Star Swim Team. The Foundation was established to honor Reid’s life and aspirations while raising money for scholarship and research in the fight to eliminate cancers in young adults.
The next Annual Reid’s Ride Bike-a-thon begins at Lynnfield High School and ends at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester along a route that travels through Middleton, Danvers, Beverly, Beverly Farms, and Manchester into Gloucester. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m.  with the ride beginning at 7:30 a.m. A barbeque lunch is scheduled at 11:30 a.m.
A $50 registration is required and participants must obtain a minimum of $125 in pledges.
To join Dr. Kravitz or to make a donation, please call 781-245-0330  begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              781-245-0330      end_of_the_skype_highlighting, or visit the website at www.reidsaccofoundation.org.

Dr Kravitz Welcomes Spring With New Promotion

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Jeffrey B Kravitz DDS

Spring Promotion: To all of our current patients if you refer a new patient to our office from now until the first day of Summer you will recieve a free custom made whitening kit. This is our premier product and is a $600.00 value. When they come in for their exam and become a patient of record we will take your impressions. Think Spring! Renew-Refresh- Call us now!! 781-245-7714

Healthy Smooching: Dr Jeffrey B. Kravitz

Monthly Newsletter

Greetings from Dr. Jeffrey B. Kravitz! Healthy Smooching: Good Oral Hygiene Leads to Great Kisses Whether you’re preparing for holiday mistletoe or are just in the mood for some love, you’re probably fully aware of the connection between the state of your mouth and the quality of your kisses. Still, a little reminder never hurt. Here’s the skinny on getting lucky without embarrassment (from your mouth, anyway)! Kick the Smoking Habit I’m sure you’re very familiar with the smoking lecture. Not only do tobacco products taste awful to your partner, but they put you at greater risk for oral cancer and periodontal (gum) disease. Why put so much effort into knocking your sweetheart’s socks off if you aren’t going to be around to pick them up? If you don’t kick the habit for your partner, do it for yourself. Don’t Chew Gum The best smooches are spur of the moment, so it’s best to be prepared for them. Besides, sugary gum can lead to tooth decay, AKA cavities. If you must chew gum (maybe you want your breath to be in top shape), choose a sugar-free variety. Brush and Floss Nothing leaves an impression like bad breath, but it’s not the kind of attention you want. Besides, healthy white teeth will help you build confidence in your smile. Brushing your teeth and gums is a good start, but take it a step further and floss each night. You’ll dislodge food particles and remove odor-causing, not to mention tissue- and tooth-destroying, bacteria. If you don’t have your toothbrush handy after you eat, at least rinse your mouth out with warm water. There are also a number of handy little dental products available for great breath on the go. Take good care of your partner by caring for yourself. If you find that your gums are exceptionally tender or swollen, or if you have habitually bad breath, make an appointment with our office for a check up! These could be symptoms of a more serious problem. Give us a call at (781)245-7714 or email us at drkravitz@kravitzdds.com today. Best Regards, Dr. Jeffrey B. Kravitz P.S. If you have any friends or family members who you feel could use our services, please don't hesitate to have them call us. We'll be sure to take good care of them.

Dr. Kravitz Wakefield, MA

Women who go to the dentist have healthier hearts.

That’s according to a new study from University of California, Berkeley researchers, who published their findings online Sept. 29 in the journal Health Economics. The study suggests that women who get dental care reduce their risk of heart attacks, stroke and other cardiovascular problems by at least one-third.

Data came from nearly 7,000 people, ages 44-88 enrolled in the Health and Retirement Study.

“Many studies have found associations between dental care and cardiovascular disease, but our study is the first to show that general dental care leads to fewer heart attacks, strokes and other adverse cardiovascular outcomes in a causal way,” said study lead author Timothy Brown, Ph.D., assistant adjunct professor of health policy and management at UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health.

This longitudinal study followed the same individuals over time, and each biennial survey included questions on whether subjects had visited the dentist and whether they had experienced a heart attack, stroke, angina or congestive heart failure during the prior two years. Deaths from heart attacks or strokes were also included in the analysis and the study took into account other risk factors, such as alcohol and tobacco use, high blood pressure and body mass index.

Protect your teeth and your heart by making an appointment with Dr. Kravitz in Wakefield.  More information can be found at http://www.wakefieldfamilydentist.com/.

Dr. Kravitz Patient Reviews

Patient Review 1: Have had everything from regular check-ups, to root canal, and crowns. Today, finished with two crowns. The chance to use sedation dentistry is always available and used as needed. He makes a real effort to be sociable, friendly, and to ensure a painless experience. About Hygienist: Over the years he has had several hygenists, all friendly, professional, gentle and thorough. Lisa worked on me today and she is delightful and has a delicate touch. Great to catch up with her every three months. Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: Over 25 years.	posted: 12/07/2010 12:29 PM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
He did a beautiful, white colored crown, and perhaps a filling or two. Painless 12/06/2010 Patient Review 2.5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 2: He did a beautiful, white colored crown, and perhaps a filling or two. Painless, which is very important to me. About Hygienist: Lisa, who is wonderful, professional, but nice Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: 3.5 years.	posted: 12/06/2010 10:47 AM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
Dr. Dr. Kravitz did my veeners. He did a fantastic job with very m 12/02/2010 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 3: Dr. Dr. Kravitz did my veeners. He did a fantastic job with very minimal discomfort and a great smile as a result. The office is very clean and professional and the staff is wonderful and caring. The patients come first is their philosophy! I highly recommend Dr. Kravitz to everyone! About Hygienist: I found Lisa to be very courteous and professional. She was gentle and did a great thorough cleaning! Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: over 3 yrs.	posted: 12/02/2010 12:34 PM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
I recommend Dr Kravitz to all my friends. The treatment, both professionally and 11/29/2010 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 4: I recommend Dr Kravitz to all my friends. The treatment, both professionally and friendly, is top notch. I originally came to Dr Kravitz being afraid and anxious about dental work. I have been smiling ever since. He gentle, caring and is so very knowledable in his profession. I couldnt ask for better. The staff is top notch and treat me like family. About Hygienist: My Hygienist, Lisa, (at Dr Kravtiz's office) is wonderful. She has that magic touch that makes me feel comfortable. I love that she is caring and friendly. My teeth love her too! Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: 20 years.	posted: 11/29/2010 9:25 AM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
Yes, I would highly recommend Dr. Kravitz, his facility which it attractively ap 11/23/2010 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 5: Yes, I would highly recommend Dr. Kravitz, his facility which it attractively appointed and accomendating staff for anyone. The success of the treatment was beyond my expectation. I would recommend this practice to anyone for any of their dental needs. Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: 1First Time.	posted: 11/23/2010 10:44 AM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
I hated going to the dentist as I don't like anyone working near my face. For fi 11/20/2010 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 6: I hated going to the dentist as I don't like anyone working near my face. For financial reasons as an excuse I had not seen a dentist for 10 years. I started asking friends and family for reccomendations and finally went for it when a co-worker went on for 5 minutes about how great Dr Kravitz was for him and his massive dental issues.I have gone from 2 dental visits a DECADE to regular, relaxed dental care. They really care about your level of comfort and I do not feel like I am in a cavity filling assembly line. Highly reccomended! They entire staff is friendly, cheerful and professional. A well selected group. Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: 2 years.	posted: 11/20/2010 8:21 AM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
Dr Kravitz is a great dentist. I came to him when I was first married and have b 11/12/2010 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 7: Dr Kravitz is a great dentist. I came to him when I was first married and have been with him since. My wife and children are patients as well. Five years ago I decided to get rid of a removable bridge that I had been wearing since a High School Hockey accident. Dr Kravitz did a bone graft and placed an implant. He also did beautiful cosmetic work on the teeth next to it. He gave me a natural looking smile and a fresh new look. He really takes pride in his work. His hands are gentle and he gave me the option of being sedated.The staff is very supportive and caring. We had a great treatment outcome, it was painless, the staff helped me with the financial arrangements and filed insurance claims for me. The Doctor's chairside manner is very caring and he also is truly a nice guy. The Hygienist is very thorough yet gentle and the staff is wonderful. I would highly recommend Dr Kravitz as a dentist. Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: 15 years.	posted: 11/12/2010 7:31 PM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
Dr Kravitz is the greatest! He has been my dentist for 12 years. When I first c 05/25/2009 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 8: Dr Kravitz is the greatest! He has been my dentist for 12 years. When I first came to him I was a mess! I had let things go for many years then one day I mustered up the courage to pick up the phone. From the first phone call I knew I had come to the right place. To make a long story short I could not imagine a dentist better to suite my needs than Dr Kravitz. By the way with the sedation option that he gave me I woke up to a beautiful smile! Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: 12 years.	posted: 05/25/2009 8:27 AM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
I truly recommend Dr Kravitz. His cost is very fair and in fact a true value for 04/26/2009 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 9: I truly recommend Dr Kravitz. His cost is very fair and in fact a true value for what has been accomplished. I spent less on his treatment than that which I previously wasted on unsucessful care at other offices.The facility is state-of-the-art and I was treated very well by every member of his staff.There really was no discomfort and anxiety was reduced because he used sedation . I now have two front (natural looking) teeth that feel like my own. I thought implants were painful and expensive. They were not painful and I was able to make monthly payments. I would recommend his office to anyone. In fact my husband and young children are now his patients as well.	posted: 04/26/2009 9:14 AM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
Dr Kravitz is truly a dental miracle worker. He has transformed my smile from a 05/25/2008 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 10: Dr Kravitz is truly a dental miracle worker. He has transformed my smile from a 1 to a 10! He is very gentle caring and talented. His staff as well as the Doctor made sure that every step of the way was comfortable.Everything was done in his office so that I did not have to travel to different doctors that I did not know.I had previously been to many dentists before so I can tell you that there is no match for Dr Kravitz, Treatment Length with Dr. Kravitz: 15 years.	posted: 05/25/2008 11:21 AM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
Dr Kravitz is an excellent dentist. He is caring, gentle and very knowledgable. 03/05/2006 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 11: Dr Kravitz is an excellent dentist. He is caring, gentle and very knowledgable. He restored my smile and honestly it has changed my life. The Dr also has placed two dental inplants for me and I am very pleased with the result. He has a beautiful modern office. He is also the best dentist in town. Dr Kravitz gave me a pill during treatment and gave me one an hour before. This really took the edge off of any dental anxiety that I may have had and made it a pleasent experience.	posted: 03/05/2006 3:47 PM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost:
Dr Kravitz hands down is the best dentist in the Boston area. He has just built 08/23/2005 Patient Review 5 Dr. Jeffrey Kravitz - General Dentist Wakefield MA. Patient Review 12: Dr Kravitz hands down is the best dentist in the Boston area. He has just built a beautiful state-of-the-art office in Wakefield. He is not cheap but his prices are fair and reasonable. From a personal standpoint he has changed my life. He is truly a master of the art and science of advanced cosmetic dentistry. He has placed veneers and implants and has given me a super smile. As a top Fortune 500 CEO my image is crucial so after seeing three different dentists unsuccessfully I went to Dr Kravitz and he put me back together.	posted: 08/23/2005 7:52 PM Facilities:  Service:  Painless:  Results:  Cost: