Sciota, Pennsylvania
The science of dentistry continues to evolve. Your dentist can identify signs of issues that were unknown even a decade ago. Dentists also take diagnostic measurements they may not have in years past – such as, measuring the oxygen levels in the blood. Quiet Valley Dental checks for oxygen saturation as part of each appointment at our office in Sciota. Why is this measurement taken? We explain why today on the blog.
The purpose of a pulse oximeter
A pulse oximeter determines the percentage of oxygen present in a patient’s blood at any given moment. The standard practice in medicine is to clip the oximeter to the end of the patient’s finger. It then relays real-time information about the oxygen levels in the blood, as well as the heart rate, with both metrics displayed immediately and changing in real time on the digital screen display of the oximeter device.
Pulse oximeters are biocompatible and approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration. These devices are non-invasive, painless and hypoallergenic. Prescription-level oximeters are tested to ensure they provide correct and accurate measurements of oxygen saturation levels.
Why is oxygen saturation important to your dentist?
Low oxygen levels may indicate a condition called hypoxia, in which body tissues receive an insufficient supply of oxygen. Symptoms of hypoxia may include shortness of breath, confusion or an elevated heart rate. Hypoxia can be a particular concern for any planned procedures that involve sedation or anesthesia. Moreover, a sudden drop in oxygen levels during a dental treatment could be a sign of a serious problem. By monitoring oxygen levels, our team of dental professionals can act quickly if a problem arises.
Other important information for your dentist from measuring oxygen levels includes:
- Detection of possible complications – For patients who have an underlying medical condition such as asthma or COPD, keeping an eye on oxygen levels can help manage the risk of respiratory problems during the procedure.
- Monitoring your condition – Undergoing dental treatment can be stressful, and even anxious, for many. Keeping a log of your pulse rate can indicate when your stress might be spiking during the procedure.
- Assessment of dental pulp – Your dentist may use a pulse oximeter to determine oxygen saturation levels in the dental pulp of a tooth. This helps with the diagnosis of a tooth’s viability, especially after the tooth sustains some sort of trauma.
- Streamlines dental implant procedure – Oxygen levels can be a valuable metric of data before, during or after an implant procedure begins. Monitoring oxygen levels throughout the process helps ensure that the placement of an implant is completed successfully.
Comprehensive dentistry in Sciota, Pennsylvania
Using a pulse oximeter to determine oxygen saturation levels is just part of Quiet Valley Dental’s commitment to the total health of the patient. That’s why we believe that good oral health is a key component of overall health and wellness. If you’d like to learn more about how we use a pulse oximeter in dentistry or any of our other protocols, schedule a consultation at Quiet Valley Dental today. Our office in Sciota currently is accepting new patients. Schedule a consultation by calling (570) 992-7040 or complete our convenient appointment request form online.
