Surveys indicate that more than 60% of people are anxious about going to the dentist, with up to 15% of people so anxious they avoid the dentist altogether. Discover Our Sedation Dentistry Options.
Nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, is the first level of sedation dentistry. It is used for a wide range of basic procedures including fillings, crowns and extractions. Nitrous oxide that works very well for those who do not have serious anxiety, but do prefer an enhanced sense of relaxation for their dental visit.
The next level of sedation or relaxation dentistry is called Oral Conscious Sedation. This approach uses prescribed sedatives to establish a relaxed, calm state, especially for patients with heightened dental anxiety. Oral Conscious Sedation is also a good solution for patients having complex treatments, allowing the treatments to be completed in fewer visits.
All of our dentists have completed additional training and certification in Oral Conscious Sedation, with each dentist holding the separate license required to perform this service.
Oral Conscious Sedation involves some additional preparation different from a regular dental visit. After thoroughly reviewing your medical history, one of our dentists will prescribe a sedative drug to be taken at home the night prior to your appointment, and again on the morning of your visit. You must have a friend or family member drive you to the dental office, and then back home.
During the dental treatment, you will feel calm and relaxed. You will not be “unconscious”, but many patients do fall asleep during the procedure. A local anesthetic will be administered via injection to eliminate any discomfort from the affected teeth and gum tissue. This occurs after you are already sedated and comfortable, so you will likely not be bothered by the injection. You will feel the effects of the sedation for a few hours after treatment, so you must have a friend or family member to drive you home.
To learn how sedation dentistry can help you, please call us at 582-CARE or ask our staff during your next appointment.
