If you have dental anxiety or fear of the dentist, you may be interested in exploring sedation dentistry options. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax and feel comfortable during dental procedures. This can make it easier to get the dental care you need, even if you have complex dental problems or are particularly anxious about going to the dentist.
There are three main types of sedation dentistry:
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Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that is inhaled through a mask placed over your nose. It works quickly and wears off quickly, so you can drive yourself home after your procedure. Nitrous oxide is a good option for people with mild dental anxiety or for short procedures.
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Oral sedation (conscious sedation): Oral sedation involves taking a pill or liquid sedative before your dental procedure. This type of sedation is more moderate than nitrous oxide and can help you feel more relaxed and drowsy. You will still be awake during your procedure, but you may not remember much of it afterwards. Oral sedation is a good option for people with moderate Invisalign las vegas anxiety or for longer or more complex procedures.
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Intravenous (IV) sedation: IV sedation is the deepest level of sedation dentistry. It is administered through an IV line inserted into your vein. With IV sedation, you will be in a deep state of relaxation and may not remember your procedure at all. IV sedation is a good option for people with severe dental anxiety or for complex or lengthy procedures.
Which type of sedation dentistry is right for you?
The best type of sedation dentistry for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Your dentist will consider your medical history, the type of dental procedures you need, and your level of dental anxiety when recommending a sedation option.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a sedation dentistry option:
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Your medical history: Some people with certain medical conditions, such as sleep apnea or heart disease, may not be good candidates for certain types of sedation dentistry. Your dentist will review your medical history to make sure that sedation dentistry is safe for you.
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The type of dental procedures you need: Some dental procedures, such as wisdom tooth extraction or root canals, are more complex and time-consuming than others. Your dentist may recommend a more moderate or deep level of sedation for these types of procedures.
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Your level of dental anxiety: If you have severe dental anxiety, you may prefer a deeper level of sedation so that you are more relaxed and comfortable during your procedure.
What to expect during a sedation dentistry appointment
On the day of your sedation dentistry appointment, you will arrive at your dentist’s office early to give the sedative time to take effect. You will be monitored by your dentist and dental team throughout your procedure.
Once you are sedated, your dentist will begin the dental procedure. You may feel some pressure or movement, but you should not feel any pain. If you do feel any pain, let your dentist know right away.
After your procedure is complete, you will be monitored until you are fully awake and alert. You may need to stay at the dentist’s office for a period of time after your procedure before you are able to go home.
Benefits of sedation dentistry
Sedation dentistry can offer a number of benefits, including:
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Reduced anxiety and fear: Sedation dentistry can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures, which can make it easier to get the dental care you need.
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Less pain: Sedation dentistry can help to reduce pain during dental procedures, especially for complex or lengthy procedures.
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Better dental health: Sedation dentistry can help you to get the dental care you need, even if you have dental anxiety or fear. This can lead to better dental health overall.
Risks of sedation dentistry
Sedation dentistry is generally safe, but there are some risks associated with it. These risks include:
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Allergic reaction: It is possible to have an allergic reaction to the sedative medication. This is rare, but it is important to let your dentist know if you have any allergies before your procedure.
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Breathing problems: Sedation dentistry can cause breathing problems in some people. This is why it is important to be monitored by your dentist and dental team throughout your procedure.
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Drowsiness: Sedation dentistry can cause drowsiness after your procedure. This is why it is important to have someone drive you home after your appointment.
How to find a qualified sedation dentist
If you are considering sedation dentistry, it is important to find a qualified sedation dentist. A qualified sedation dentist has the training and experience to safely administer sedative medication and monitor patients during sedation dentistry procedures.
To find a qualified sedation dentist