Sedation Dentistry: Everything You Need To Know

Are you afraid of dental visits? Don't worry; you are not alone. A large number of people worldwide have dental anxiety that makes them postpone their dental appointments. For such patients with dental fear, sedation dentistry can be a life savior. Sedation dentistry can help you get through procedures that might otherwise cause you to feel anxious or even fearful.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the practice of using medication to relax a patient prior to receiving dental treatment. The medication produces a drowsy or calming effect, which helps reduce anxiety or discomfort.

Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients who experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. It can be particularly helpful for patients who experience difficulty sitting still for any length of time during dental treatments.

Sedation dentistry offers patients many benefits, such as:

• Reduced anxiety
• Improved comfort
• Reduced gag reflex, which aids in keeping your mouth open
• Decreased sensitivity to pain
• Easier completion of longer procedures
• Reduced chances of developing post-op complications
• Better patient-dentist communication

If you're interested in sedation dentistry, contact your dentist to schedule a consultation.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

There are three types of sedation dentistry:

• Oral sedation

Oral sedation is a low-risk form of sedation. Patients take a pill, usually Halcion, the night before the procedure. The pill will put them in a relaxed state of mind. You will need a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment. Oral sedatives can cause a groggy feeling and make you feel relaxed during the procedure. Oral sedatives will keep you awake and conscious while your dentist performs dental treatments.

• Nitrous oxide

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous is an inhaled sedative. It is administered through a mask over the nose. The patient will relax within minutes of the gas being administered. Once the gas has worn off, the patient will still feel relaxed but will not feel any pain. Nitrous oxide is one of the most common types of sedation dentistry. It's safe, easy to administer, and wears off quickly. However, you'll need to arrange transportation to and from your dental appointment. Because this is a mild sedative, you'll need someone to drive you home.

• Intravenous sedation

Intravenous sedation is another way we can eliminate pain during a procedure. During the procedure, you will be given medication through an intravenous line. We will also monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is safe when administered by experienced professionals. They will evaluate your medical history before starting sedation and monitor you throughout the procedure. 

Schedule an appointment with Dental Design Studios to learn more tips to maintain good oral hygiene. Our practice is located at 2323 E Guadalupe Rd. #101 Gilbert, AZ 85234. Contact us at 480-621-5535 or visit our website to book an appointment.