Fear and anxiety should never prevent you from achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. Thanks to modern advancements, dentists can now ensure that patients remain relaxed and comfortable during their visits. Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who experience nervousness, allowing them to receive the necessary care without discomfort.
Who should consider sedation dentistry?
While anyone can request sedation options, certain individuals may find it especially beneficial, including those who:
- Struggle with the sounds and smells of a dental office
- Have difficulty getting numb during procedures
- Require extensive dental repairs
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Have experienced dental trauma in the past
What sedation options are available?
There are several sedation choices for patients seeking to feel more relaxed during dental treatment:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): This is a mild sedative that induces a feeling of calmness during your procedure. The gas is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose, and its effects wear off once the nitrous oxide is turned off.
- Oral sedation: Often combined with nitrous oxide, this involves taking an anti-anxiety medication before your appointment. It helps you feel deeply relaxed. A responsible adult will need to accompany you to and from the dentist’s office since the effects of oral sedation can last up to 24 hours.
- IV sedation: This is the deepest level of sedation offered by most dentists, where medication is administered intravenously for maximum relaxation and comfort.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is very safe. During the procedure, the dental team will carefully monitor your vital signs to ensure your comfort and safety. While under sedation, you’ll still be able to respond to questions, but you will likely have little or no memory of the procedure itself.
Will I be unconscious during my appointment?
With sedation dentistry, patients remain awake but completely relaxed. Unlike general anesthesia, which involves unconsciousness and the use of tubes, dental sedation allows patients to breathe on their own while remaining deeply relaxed.
If you’re interested in learning more about sedation dentistry, visit Elegance Family Dentistry for a consultation with an experienced sedation dentist.
