What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to the use of medically induced relaxation techniques during dental procedures. Sedation can help patients who are nervous or anxious about their procedure, allowing them to relax. Some procedures that are particularly invasive or long may be done under sedation for the patient’s comfort. A sedative can be inhaled, taken orally, or administered by IV.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry provides many benefits in a variety of situations.
- Feel more relaxed. If you are anxious about getting dental work done, sedation helps you feel more calm and relaxed before and during your procedure.
- Procedure seems shorter. Sedation helps the time pass more quickly so you won’t realize how much time you’re actually spending in the dental chair.
- Less local anesthesia is required. When under sedation you may not require as much local anesthesia to numb the area being worked on.
- Gag reflex suppression. Many people with dental anxiety have a strong gag reflex that makes dental work unpleasant. Sedation can help eliminate your gag reflex so your procedure goes more smoothly.
Types of Sedation We Offer
We provide the following types of sedation your comfort:
- Nitrous Oxide. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask worn over the nose. It provides a calming effect that is often described as euphoric. You can start to feel the effects in a matter of seconds and it wears off just as quickly when your procedure is complete.
- Conscious Oral Sedation. Conscious oral sedation comes in a pill or liquid form that you take before arriving for your procedure. It helps you to feel more relaxed while still being awake for the procedure. You may not be fully aware of everything going on and may not remember anything from the procedure.
- IV Sedation. A sedative is administered through an IV that makes you feel as if you are asleep, but you’re still conscious. You can respond to questions and requests, but you won’t be aware and most likely won’t remember anything about your procedure.
Are You a Good Candidate for Sedation?
If you feel a high level of anxiety about having a dental procedure, you may be a good candidate for sedation. Sedation is safe for most patients, unless you have a medical condition that would make it unsafe for you to be sedated. We will get a complete medical history and a list of medications you are taking in order to determine the best form of sedation for you. You don’t have to worry about getting dental work when sedation options are available.
Why Choose Leading Edge Specialized Dentistry?
Going to the dentist shouldn’t be a stressful experience. At Leading Edge Specialized Dentistry our goal is to make you as comfortable as possible while we provide you with top quality dental care. Our caring, compassionate dental team will help you feel relaxed at every visit to our office.