Reasons To Choose Sedation Dentistry
Many people fear dental procedures. They worry about potential discomfort, vulnerability, and the fear of the unknown. Sedation dentistry can definitely help patients feel more relaxed during dental work, but is it the right choice for you? Read on to learn more.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the process of using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is used by many different people of different ages for a variety of reasons. It’s sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry”, although that’s not entirely accurate because the majority of patients are awake during procedures.
The Types of Sedation We Use
- Nitrous Oxide – Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas”, is a gaseous sedative. Despite its nickname, nitrous oxide does not cause hysterical laughter, rather it creates a calming effect to help patients feel at ease and relaxed during dental procedures. As a patient, you are still awake during the procedure and can respond to the dentist’s questions and follow directions. However, you won’t feel any discomfort or remember the procedure.
- Oral Sedatives – Oral sedation is a pill that is taken approximately an hour before the appointment. It is a great option for patients who feel extreme anxiety prior to their appointment and helps create a sense of peace and calm before the patient arrives. It is also a great option for patients who have a longer procedure scheduled.
Who Benefits From Sedation Dentistry?
Patients who consider sedation dentistry often have different reasons for their interest, such as:
- Phobia related to dental procedures
- Bad experiences with dental work in the past
- Particularly sensitive oral nerves
- Trouble sitting through long procedures
- Sensitivity to the smells, sights, and sounds of the dentist office
If you recognize yourself in any of these problem areas, consider speaking to our staff about sedation dentistry. Dental sedation can help patients get through many types of dental work, from something as simple as a cleaning to something more complex like a root canal, tooth extraction, dental implant and more.
If you are someone who avoids the dentist and has been putting off a cleaning or procedure out of fear, fear no longer and contact our office located in Wellington, FL to hear more about how sedation dentistry can help you. We hope to see you in our office soon.
