Sedation Dentistry Just Makes Sense
Our commitment to treating you includes making sure you are comfortable and relaxed during treatment. If you are among the many patients who experience dental fear or anxiety, that may mean sedation dentistry. Continue reading to learn more.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during a routine cleaning or a complex treatment. It is ideal if you’re dealing with dental anxiety, have a low pain tolerance, or need a long or complicated procedure. Sedation keeps you conscious but deeply relaxed, making the whole experience less stressful and more comfortable.
Why Ask for Sedation?
If any of the following are a concern for you, then sedation may be the right choice during your visit:
- Dental Anxiety: If fear and anxiety are issues for you when you have dental appointments, then sedation can make the experience more pleasant.
- Sensitive Teeth: If you have particularly sensitive teeth or gums, then sedation can numb you enough to make the treatment more comfortable.
- Gag Reflex: A strong gag reflex makes treatment more complicated than it needs to be. Sedation mitigates that, allowing us to work.
Types of Sedation
There are several different types of sedation. Deciding which is most appropriate will depend on the treatment and your needs.
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): A mask is placed over your nose, and you inhale the gas while the dentist works.
- Oral Sedation: Usually given in pill form, the strength of the sedation depends on the dosage the dentist prescribes and is based on your treatment needs.
- IV Sedation: Sedative drugs are administered through an IV drip for a faster delivery that can be adjusted as needed.
- General Anesthesia: This makes you completely unconscious and is reserved for the most complex treatments.
Safety and Considerations
Sedation dentistry is completely safe and painless. The dentist will decide which method is best for you. Oral and IV sedation take a few hours to wear off, which will prohibit you from driving after treatment. Nitrous oxide, however, wears off within minutes, so you can go about your day as usual.
If you are interested in learning more about the sedation options we provide, call us to schedule an appointment at our office located in Phoenix, AZ.
