Everything You Need To Know About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is a term used to encompass a range of techniques that make going to the dentist easier and more comfortable for you. The ultimate goal of sedation dentistry is to help you maintain good oral health while avoiding anxiety or discomfort at the dentist’s office.

When a patient experiences fear, anxiety, or nervousness during dental treatment, they are more likely to feel physical distress in the form of increased blood pressure and heart rate. These symptoms can actually increase the likelihood that the patient will experience complications during the treatment process. By inducing a sense of calm in the dental patient through the use of sedatives, your dental care team can make the process of caring for your teeth faster and more efficient. Additionally, sedation dentistry can help patients who have a difficult time sitting still for long periods of time. When your dental care team is able to use sedation dentistry techniques, it can help you complete multiple dental procedures in one visit. This will allow you to get the care you need in a shorter period of time so you can get on with your day faster.

• Types of Sedation Dentistry

Depending on the severity of your anxiety or the type of procedure you need, your dentist may recommend one of the following forms of sedation: nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation, and general anesthesia. With each of these options, you can have a relaxing experience while the dentist completes the necessary procedures to restore your oral health.

• Nitrous oxide is the most common form of sedation used in a dental office. The medication is delivered through a small mask that covers your nose to help you relax throughout the treatment process. You will be able to drive yourself to and from your appointment using this type of sedation.
• Oral sedation requires a prescription pill that you take about an hour before the procedure. You will feel very relaxed and groggy throughout the entire appointment. You will need another person to drive you to and from the office for this option.
• IV sedation involves an anesthesiologist delivering the medication through a vein in your arm so you will be completely out during the procedure. A family member or friend will need to drive you to and from the dentist’s office after this form of sedation.
• General anesthesia is the strongest form of sedation and requires that you have an anesthesiologist administer it intravenously while you are asleep. This option also requires a friend or family member to drive you to and from your treatment since you will not have any recall of the visit.

Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?

Patients with a strong gag reflex, fear or anxiety about dental treatments, sensitive teeth, high fear of needles and shots, difficulty getting numb, and those who need to undergo complex dental procedures can all benefit from sedation dentistry. All of these patients will be sedated for their procedures to ensure their comfort and enjoy a more positive experience. For patients with these issues, our office offers several types of sedation dentistry options to suit their needs and preferences.

With today’s advancements in dentistry, you have more options than ever when it comes to having a comfortable and relaxing dental experience. Contact us today to schedule a visit with our dentist. We are eager to care for your smile!