You have a dentist appointment coming up, and you’re doing your best to stay positive. But the thought of dental tools in your mouth has always made you nervous. You want to keep the appointment, but it sure would be great to get some reassurance that you’ll be comfortable.
Fortunately, sedation dentistry in Dallas has you covered. You’ll be able to get the treatment you need without it being a stressful experience. Keep reading to learn what sedation dentistry is, what the experience feels like, and how you can prepare.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the practice of using medication to help patients relax and feel comfortable during any type of dental work. Before your appointment, your dental team will explain your options and help you select the best one for your needs. They’ll consider your level of anxiety, medical history, and several other factors to narrow down the best method.
What Does Being Under Dental Sedation Feel Like?
Depending on your situation, your dentist may recommend one or more sedation options. Each type serves a unique purpose and eases your nerves in different ways. Here’s what you can expect from each one:
NITROUS OXIDE DENTAL SEDATION
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a mild-yet-effective sedation dentistry option. It’s a blend of nitrogen and oxygen that’s administered through a small mask placed over your nose. Although you will remain conscious and alert under this type of sedation, you’ll feel deeply relaxed. Once you inhale the gas, you’ll experience giddiness, euphoria, and numbness. A positive regarding this method is the effects wear off within minutes of breathing normal oxygen, meaning you can drive yourself home right after your appointment.
IV DENTAL SEDATION
IV sedation is used for patients with severe phobias or for specific procedures where nitrous oxide wouldn’t be enough to ensure a comfortable, stress-free experience. The medication will be delivered directly into a vein on your hand or arm; the sedation level can be adjusted throughout the procedure as needed. The effects of IV sedation take a while to completely wear off, so you should plan to have another trusted adult take you home afterward.
ORAL SEDATION
If you have severe anxiety or fear, oral sedation can be an appropriate option. It’s a prescribed medication that you take one hour before your appointment. Since it causes you to feel extremely relaxed and unconcerned, you’ll need to have a friend or family member drive you to your visit. The effects will gradually fade after a few hours, leaving you with little to no memory of the procedure.
How Can I Prepare for Sedation Dentistry in Dallas?
Before committing to anything, you’ll want to discuss your medical history and current health with your dental team to determine whether sedation dentistry is the right choice for you. Depending on the type you choose, you’ll need to prepare beforehand. For example, if you opt for IV dental sedation, you’ll need to arrange for someone to be with you during your appointment.
Sedation dentistry is an excellent option for patients who need help feeling relaxed during their appointment. Now that you have a better idea of what sedation dentistry feels like in Dallas, you can ask your dentist about your options.
About the Author
Dr. David Brumbaugh has been working hard to provide high-quality dentistry to his patients for more than 25 years now. He earned his dental doctorate at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Dr. Brumbaugh was invited to join the teaching faculty at the Center of Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry, and today he is considered an expert on IV conscious sedation. He is licensed by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners to administer all these sedation options, and Dr. Brumbaugh currently offers IV sedation and nitrous oxide sedation. Just reference your interest in sedation dentistry when you book your next appointment, which you can do on his website or by calling (214) 369-5159.
