What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the practice of administering different methods of sedation in order to help patients remain calm and relaxed during dental exams or procedures.
Dental phobia is a very real condition that can get in the way of giving your smile the care that it needs. Sedation dentistry helps put those affected patients at ease so that the caring professionals at Presidential Dental Group can make your smile all that it can be.
Is sedation dentistry for me?
Sedation dentistry significantly improves the dental experience for patients who suffer from phobias and anxiety. Your dental specialist will determine whether you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry when you come in for your consultation at Presidential Dental Group.
Your dentist will take into account the following factors when considering your sedation dentistry options:
- Physical and mental health
- Emotional state when you’re in the office
- Level of pain tolerance
- Sensitivity of your gag reflex
- Comfort level in the dental chair
- The amount of dental work you need
In some instances, Presidential Dental Group might need a note from your primary care physician before they can clear you for sedation dentistry.
How does sedation dentistry work?
The team at Presidential Dental Group uses primarily conscious sedation, meaning that you’ll be awake during your procedure. There are a few different methods used for conscious sedation dentistry, and your dentist will recommend a particular method depending on the reason for your sedation and the type of procedure you’re having done.
The primary modes of conscious sedation dentistry include:
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is an inhaled sedative helping you relax during procedures. To administer it, your dentist affixes a gas mask over your nose that you wear during the entire time of your treatment. The effects wear off soon after you remove the mask.
Oral sedation
With oral sedation, you take a pill an hour or so before your procedure. Oral sedation takes a little while to start working and takes some time to wear off, so make sure to arrange for somebody to take you to and from your appointment if you’re planning on using this method.
Intravenous (IV) sedation
IV sedation tends to be reserved for more serious procedures because of how intense and effective it can be. IV sedation puts you in a relaxed state very quickly, and will also require you to have assistance getting home from your procedure.
To learn more about how the dental professionals at Presidential Dental Group can alleviate your dental fears with sedation dentistry, call the office today or request an appointment online.
