Are you apprehensive about visiting the dentist because you heard about someone else’s negative experience? Perhaps you dread dental appointments because the sounds of dental instruments bother you. Whether you have phobias or anxieties attached to oral healthcare treatment or if you simply wish to enjoy treatment that is as comfortable as possible, our practice offers Sedation Dentistry to increase the comfort of our guests during procedures. Sedation dentistry is available in a few forms that produce feelings of relaxation and calm.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is available in a few forms. Our practice offers nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and conscious sedation. Each type of sedation presents different benefits. For example, nitrous oxide is considered a mild form of sedation that provides euphoric effects, which come on and wear off quickly so that patients can transport themselves to and from appointments.
Oral sedation, stronger than nitrous oxide, involves the administration of prescription medication. Benzodiazepines, a class of medication formulated to combat anxiety, are commonly prescribed because while they are considered relatively mild sedatives, they are effective. This medication can increase comfort for those with nervousness or those receiving more complex or invasive treatment. Since this type of medication affects motor function, those receiving oral sedation should not drive.
The last type of sedation dentistry offered at our practice is conscious sedation. Conscious sedation is administered intravenously but it is not the same as general anesthesia. Patients are not induced into an unconscious state. Instead, conscious sedation allows patients to respond to questions or instructions but for the most part, our guests rest peacefully while our team provides high quality treatment.
Who Benefits from Sedation
While it is best to consult with a dental professional to determine whether sedation dentistry is right for you, most people can benefit from the use of nitrous oxide as this compound does not have lingering effects after treatment. Medications used for oral and conscious sedation, however, can have contraindications with other medications and health conditions. This is why it is important to discuss your health history with a professional.
For more information about sedation dentistry, Call Our Office to schedule time with our dentist.