Everything About Sedation Dentistry

If you experience anxiety or fear when it comes to going to the dentist, know that you aren’t alone. In fact, dental anxiety is one of the most common fears around the globe. The good news is that there are things you can do to calm your nerves.

Our dentists may recommend sedation dentistry if you have an upcoming procedure. In this type of dental care, you’ll be given medication that relaxes you, so you can remain comfortable through your appointment. Many sedatives work rather quickly, so you’ll be able to feel relaxed within only a few minutes. 

What is sedation dentistry?

A dentist may use sedation dentistry to give a patient a relaxed, comfortable experience during dental treatments. The dentist may use medications or sedative techniques to allow the patient to relax.

Types of dental sedation

• Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, when inhaled by the patient, keeps them calm and alleviates pain during dental procedures. The gas provides a feeling of euphoria and relaxes the patient. Some degree of amnesia is also common with nitrous oxide. This sedation dentistry is very safe.

• Oral sedation

Oral sedation involves taking an oral medication about an hour before your appointment. You will be conscious and able to respond to the dentist, but you may not be completely aware of what is happening during your procedure. 

• IV sedation

IV sedation involves administering sedative medications directly into a patient’s bloodstream. The sedatives can cause a variety of effects, including drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and lack of pain.

• Deep sedation

Deep sedation, also known as general anesthesia, involves the use of medications to help patients sleep during dental procedures. The patient will be unconscious and unable to feel pain. Deep sedation is often used for patients who experience severe anxiety during dental procedures. It is also used for patients who may have difficulty holding their breath or sitting still for long periods of time.

Who can benefit from sedation dentistry?

• A dental phobia can keep patients from even making an appointment, and that’s a serious problem. Fear of the dentist can be rooted in a number of reasons, including past traumatic experiences or experiencing pain during treatment. Sedation dentistry can benefit people with dental phobia.
• If you have a sensitive gag reflex, you can feel a lot of discomfort when the dentist is working on your teeth. Inhalation sedation can help calm your gag reflex and make you feel more relaxed.
• If you have trouble getting numb, or if you’re particularly anxious about getting numb, sedation dentistry can help.
• Children can especially benefit from sedation dentistry if they need multiple procedures in one appointment, have severe dental anxiety, or need help relaxing.
• Patients with special needs may require sedation dentistry in order to feel comfortable throughout their dental treatment.

Is sedation dentistry right for me?

Visits to a dental office are typically expected to promote good dental hygiene, provide restorative care, and promote overall wellbeing. However, some people experience dental anxiety or dental phobia, which can make it extremely difficult to receive dental care. Sedation dentistry is a way to provide such patients with a more relaxed dental experience.

Please feel free to stop by our dental offices for a checkup. Book your slot by calling us at (281) 991-6530 or visit us at 6429 Fairmont Pkwy Ste # 101, Pasadena, TX 77505.