What is Sedation Dentistry?

If you have ever put off going to the dentist because of fear or anxiety, you’re not alone. Many Americans avoid the dentist out of fear or anxiety, otherwise known as dental phobia. According to the American Dental Association, sedation dentistry can help people with this type of anxiety. Sleep dentistry near you will help you relax during any complex dental procedure.

Different types of sedation are available, and your dentist will work with you to determine which type is right for you.

Who Needs Sedation Dentistry?

If you dread going to the dentist because of pain, fear, or anxiety, you may be a candidate for sedation dentistry. While it requires some commitment, it doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. As many patients have, you may find that your first visit doesn’t require sedation. If it does, you can gather information and see which type works best for you.

People who suffer from severe gag reflex may also need sedation dentistry. A gag reflex is a natural defense mechanism of the throat that prevents choking. It’s caused by stimulation of the pharyngeal wall and can be triggered by sudden changes in air pressure, touching the back of one’s throat, or having something enter one’s mouth and touch the back of their tongue. If you have a severe one, it may affect the dental procedure, and the dentist may use sedation dentistry to make it easy to carry out a procedure. Trustworthy sedation dentists in Magnolia, TX, will work with you to ensure that you remain safe and comfortable throughout your entire procedure–from start to finish!

What Are the Dental Sedation Types?

Dental sedation is a safe and effective way to help patients feel more comfortable during dental procedures. There are different types of sedation used in dentistry, depending on the procedure being performed and the severity of the patient’s anxiety.

• • Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation

Nitrous oxide is a gas given to people to make them feel relaxed and calm. Dentists or doctors often use it when they need to do a procedure that may be uncomfortable for the person.

The gas can be administered through a mask or nosepiece, which helps the person breathe in the gas. Nitrous oxide can also be given intravenously, which happens during surgery.

Dentists and doctors often use nitrous oxide sedation when they need to do a procedure that could be uncomfortable for the patient.

• • Oral dental sedation

Oral dental sedation is a type of sedation that is given to patients who are undergoing dental treatment. It can be used for both children and adults.

Oral sedation can be administered as a pill or liquid. It usually takes longer to take effect and is given a couple of hours before the procedure. It does not cause unconsciousness, but you may drift to sleep and can be woken up with a gentle shake.

• • Intravenous dental sedation

Intravenous dental sedation is a type of sedation given to the patient through an intravenous line.

It is a drug-based form of sedation and can be administered in different ways. The most common way for IV sedation is by injecting at the back of the hand or on the arm.

This type of sedation will last for two hours, which means it can be used for longer procedures.

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is often used for less invasive procedures, while general anesthesia may be necessary for more complex procedures. No matter what type of sedation is used, the goal is always to help the patient feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental appointment.

What are the Side Effects of Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation is a technique to make a patient feel relaxed and sleepy, which can be helpful for patients who are anxious about dental procedures.

The side effects of dental sedation vary from person to person. Some may experience vomiting, confusion, and dizziness as side effects. For some people, the side effects may last for hours after the procedure.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Tamborello Dentistry for more information about sedation dentistry and what you can expect.