Sedation Dentistry
All surgical and sedation procedures carry potential risks and complications. Your dentist will discuss these with you in detail before your treatment and answer any questions you may have.
If you feel anxiety at the thought of a visit to the dental chair, talk to us about sedation dentistry.
Most forms of sedation used in dentistry allow you to remain conscious but relaxed, helping to ease the tension of undergoing dental procedures.
Methods of Sedation
There are several methods of sedation available:
- Nitrous oxide is a common sedation technique. A small mask is fitted over your nose, and you inhale a sweet-smelling gas while the procedure is taking place. Nitrous oxide causes a relaxed feeling during your dental procedures. The effect wears off just minutes after the mask is removed, allowing you to resume your normal activities, typically without any downtime.
- Oral sedation can be used for mild to moderate dental anxiety. You will be given a medication to be taken approximately an hour before your appointment. Oral sedation will leave you feeling very relaxed, and you may not even remember all of the procedure. You will need to be accompanied to your appointment by a friend or family member, as oral sedation can take several hours to wear off.
You will be monitored during your appointment to ensure that you are safe during the procedure.
Benefits of Sedation
Sedation dentistry offers several benefits:
- It often allows you to complete dental work in fewer visits.
- It can help reduce anxiety and leave you feeling more relaxed after your procedure.
- In many cases, it can block the sounds and smells often associated with dental anxiety.
If you are interested in sedation dentistry or have questions or concerns, please contact our clinic for more information. We will perform a thorough evaluation and help you decide if sedation is right for you.