While looking over your monthly calendar, you realize you have a dentist appointment coming up soon. Does the thought of it fill you with dread? Don’t worry – you’re not alone. Many people find themselves nervous even when receiving a standard checkup. Luckily, sedation dentistry can help relieve any dental anxiety and allow patients to comfortably receive the care they need. Although it’s widely known as a tool to ease nerves, it provides benefits far beyond that. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of sedation dentistry and how it can help anyone.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax and feel comfortable during any type of dental procedure. Most dentists offer more than one type of sedation dentistry. Before your appointment, you’ll be provided with options, and your dentist will help you determine the best one for your needs. They’ll take into account your level of anxiety, medical history, and several other factors to choose the right method for you.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Let’s take a closer look at the two types of sedation dentistry your dentist offers:
IV DENTAL SEDATION
Do you have severe dental phobia or anxiety? IV sedation is often used for patients undergoing complex procedures or those who believe nitrous oxide won’t be sufficient to ensure a comfortable, stress-free experience. The medication is delivered directly into a vein on your hand or arm. Throughout the dental procedure, your sedation level is adjusted as needed. Since the effects may take a while to wear off, you’ll need to have someone take you home afterward.
NITROUS OXIDE DENTAL SEDATION
For patients with milder cases of dental anxiety, nitrous oxide sedation is an excellent option. The gas is administered through a small mask that fits over your nose. You’ll feel the effects as soon as you inhale and quickly enter a state of relaxation. Although you won’t be asleep, you also won’t feel any pain or worries. Because the effects fade within just minutes of the mask coming off, you can drive yourself home after the procedure.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
You can expect to reap several benefits with sedation dentistry, including:
- Since the medication allows you to be more compliant, less time is needed to complete the dental procedure. That means you can expect lengthy or complex treatments to speed by!
- You’ll be awake and able to respond to verbal commands and physical touch.
- If you have a condition or inability to remain still, sedation dentistry can ease your body and mind into a state of relaxation.
- Do you have a sensitive gag reflex? Sedation helps minimize discomfort and relax the body, meaning these reflexes will not be a problem during your procedure.
- With sedation, your dentist can complete multiple treatments and procedures during one visit.
- You won’t remember most of what happened during your appointment.
As you can see, anyone can benefit from sedation dentistry – not just those with dental-related anxiety. So, next time you visit your dentist, don’t be afraid to ask about their sedation options. They’ll be more than happy to help!
About the Practice
Dr. R. David Brumbaugh has over 25 years of dentistry experience under his belt. He completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and is now considered an expert on IV conscious sedation. If you’re interested in using sedation dentistry during your next visit, Dr. Brumbaugh is more than happy to fulfill your wishes. To learn more about your sedation options, visit our website or call (214) 307-9227 to speak to a member of our team.
