Sedation dentistry is the ideal solution for many patients who experience physical or mental limitations; anxiety or fear that make dental treatment difficult; or are unable to sit quietly long enough for your dentist to complete needed dental treatment.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous Oxide – Many refer to this as laughing gas. Safe for children and adults, nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and delivered via a nose cone. This relaxing mode of sedation allows both the patient and dentist to get through treatment without multiple interruptions. Once discontinued, the patient returns to normal right away. This type of sedation allows the patient to drive, and return to work or school immediately.
Oral Sedation – A consultation with your dentist is needed to make sure you are a good candidate for oral sedation. Normally suitable for most adults, oral sedation involves taking an initial sedative at home about an hour before your scheduled appointment. Due to this, transportation is required for the patient both to and from their dental procedure.
Upon arrival at the office, the patient is administered additional sedatives. The dentist and staff are trained to monitor the patient throughout treatment.
With the patient totally relaxed, the dentist is free to perform needed care. Very often, multiple procedures are completed in one appointment. Even though the patient remains conscious, many report they felt like they slept throughout treatment.
The patient must be awake and fully alert before leaving the office is permitted. Upon arriving at home, the patient can expect to feel a little woozy for several hours … returning to work or school is not advisable.
Is sedation dentistry right for you?
An honest conversation between you and your dentist can help make this determination. Are your circumstances preventing you from having needed dental treatment due to anxiety or other limitations? If so, you may be the ideal candidate for sedation dentistry … whether through nitrous oxide or oral sedation, obtaining needed dental care is vitally important for both your oral and overall health.
To learn more about your sedation options, contact Aesthetic Dental Partners today.
