Sedation Dentistry
Sedation is a common solution for dental patients who experience anxiety or fear. It involves the use of medications that help relax both the body and mind. The most prevalent type of sedation used in dentistry is conscious sedation, which keeps you awake and capable of interacting with your dentist. While you won’t sleep during the procedure, you will feel drowsy and relaxed, making the experience comfortable. Although you remain conscious, you might not recall much, or any, of the procedure afterward.
Dentists have three types of conscious sedation at their disposal: nitrous oxide gas, oral sedation through pills, and intravenous (IV) sedation.
Sedation Dentistry Services &
Treatments
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Do you find it difficult to visit the dentist? Does the thought of sitting in a dental chair cause you to feel anxious? If negative past experiences have made you avoid or miss recent dental appointments, you are certainly not alone. Countless individuals globally experience fear towards dental treatments. Fortunately, we have a way to help.
At our practice, you no longer need to suffer quietly or neglect your oral health. We offer sedation dentistry to patients of all ages, addressing different degrees of anxiety from slight nervousness to severe phobias. We firmly believe that ensuring your comfort at the dentist is key to maintaining optimal dental hygiene.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as “laughing gas,” represents the mildest form of sedation. It is administered to patients via a small mask that fits over the nose and takes effect almost immediately. The dentist can easily adjust the dosage, increasing or decreasing it as necessary. A major benefit of nitrous oxide is that its effects wear off quickly once the gas is turned off, allowing you to return to normal within a few minutes and drive yourself home after the appointment. While side effects are uncommon, they can include nausea, headaches, and dizziness.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation entails taking an anti-anxiety medication approximately one hour before your scheduled treatment. This method is convenient for patients seeking a straightforward sedation option that doesn’t involve extensive in-office monitoring or equipment. Unlike nitrous oxide, oral sedation can leave you feeling groggy, tired, and uncoordinated following your appointment, necessitating a ride home from a friend or family member.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation is the most potent form of conscious sedation. It involves the administration of medication similar to that used in oral sedation, but it is injected directly into your bloodstream via a needle. This method allows the medication to take effect more quickly and intensely. The dentist can also adjust the dosage precisely to ensure you don’t become overly sedated. While recovery from IV sedation is quicker compared to oral sedation, you will still require someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Overview
Before undergoing any form of sedation, there are several preparatory steps you need to take. First, you’ll need to consult with our team to determine if you are a suitable candidate for sedation. Certain medical conditions, such as issues with heart, lung, or liver function, may be exacerbated by dental sedation. Additionally, sedation is not recommended for nursing or pregnant women due to potential risks to the child’s health and development. It’s important to discuss your medical history and any diagnoses with our team or your primary care physician to understand the risks involved with sedation.
Next, you will need to provide a comprehensive list of all prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any dietary supplements you regularly use. Some of these substances may have adverse or dangerous interactions with the sedatives used during dental procedures.
Aftercare
Lastly, it’s important not to consume any non-clear liquids for at least six hours prior to your appointment. If you are undergoing oral or IV sedation, you should arrange for someone to drive you to and from our office. Ensure that your schedule is clear for the remainder of the day and avoid driving, participating in strenuous physical activities, or operating heavy machinery until the following day.
Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from achieving the beautiful smile you deserve. Contact us today to discover which type of sedation is best suited for you.
