Everything You Need To Know About Sedation Dentistry

Feeling stressed or nervous about having dental work completed is normal. Going to the dentist for any reason can be nerve-wracking. Sedation dentistry is a great way to feel more relaxed and calm throughout any dental procedure. Sedation dentistry is also helpful if you suffer from dental phobias, which make it tough to sit still in the dentist’s chair.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Often, fear of the dentist keeps people from receiving the dental treatment they need to stay healthy. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during procedures. This type of dentistry is beneficial for people who are extremely fearful or anxious. Sedation dentistry makes it easier for these patients to remain calm and relaxed during their procedures.

Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?

Anyone who is nervous about undergoing dental treatment, or has difficulty sitting still for long periods of time, could benefit from sedation dentistry. Some patients may also benefit from sedation dentistry if they have a very sensitive gag reflex. 

Explain The Types of Sedation Dentistry

There are three types of sedation dentistry: nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.

• Oral sedation

During oral sedation, you’ll take a pill about an hour before your appointment. This will cause drowsiness and relieve anxiety - so you may sleep through your appointment.

• Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a light sedative. You breathe in nitrous oxide through a mask, and within minutes you will feel more relaxed. Nitrous oxide is a minimal sedation option. This means that your sedation dentist will be able to communicate with you throughout your procedure.   The effects of nitrous oxide wear off shortly after you stop breathing it in.

• IV Sedation

IV sedation is administered through a needle inserted into a vein in the arm or hand. This type of sedation can be very fast-acting, and the patient may not remember the entire procedure. The effects of IV sedation can be felt almost immediately.

This type of sedation can be used to relax the patient and reduce any anxiety the patient may feel about dental care. It can also be used for patients who experience a strong gag reflex during dental treatment. Because the effects are felt so rapidly, IV sedation is usually only administered during longer procedures.

Is Sedation Dentistry Right For Me?

Everyone feels nervous or anxious about going to the dentist. But some people feel downright terrified. If you’re terrified of going to the dentist, if you have a condition that makes receiving dental care difficult, or if you have multiple, lengthy procedures to undergo, then sedation dentistry might be right for you. Sedation dentistry is designed to reduce anxiety, fear, and pain to help patients feel more comfortable during their dental appointment.

What Should I Expect After Sedation Dentistry?

After your sedation dentistry appointment, you will likely need someone to drive you home. You may experience some lingering grogginess, and your dentist may advise you not to operate heavy machinery or drive yourself home.

Our dentists at Rand Center for Dentistry in Flanders, NJ, provide the best dentistry solutions and the best dental care for patients. To learn more and schedule an appointment, call (973) 370-8917.