15 Sep Restless or Anxious? How Sedation Dentistry Can Help
Does the thought of a visit to the dentist make you feel frightened and anxious? You’re not alone; in fact, dental phobias and panic are quite common. To help our patients have as comfortable an experience as possible, we offer varying levels of sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry is a comfort amenity that can make visiting our practice a whole lot easier.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Our practice offers three types of sedation dentistry: nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation. The type of sedation administered will depend on the type of treatment received and the severity of a patient’s dental-related anxiety.
Nitrous Oxide
This gaseous compound has been used in dental and medical settings for over 100 years. Nitrous oxide is a drug-free option for alleviating pain and reducing anxiety. Delivered via a comfortable nasal mask, nitrous oxide’s effects come on and wear off quickly. This type of sedation dentistry is ideal for minimally invasive treatments like fillings and for mild anxiety.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking prescription medications orally, typically from the benzodiazepine class of drugs. This type of sedation is usually reserved for longer procedures and for those with moderate to severe anxiety. Since benzodiazepines affect motor function, patients will need to arrange for transportation to and from their procedures.
IV Sedation
Normally reserved for lengthy and complex treatments such as tooth extractions and dental implant placement, IV sedation administers anxiety-relieving medications through an intravenous feed. This safe and effective form of sedation makes it easy for patients to sleep through their treatments.
IV sedation is adjustable so that only the necessary amount of medication is delivered. This kind of sedation has effects that can last several hours, so it’s necessary to have a family member bring you to and from your appointment.
If you struggle with fears and phobias related to dental settings, we recommend discussing your symptoms with our dentist. Call our office to schedule your next appointment.