You should feel comfortable and relaxed during your dental visits and procedures. Unfortunately, that’s not always possible for all people. If you suffer from doubts, fears or anxieties, then sedation dentistry may work for you.
What Is Sedation Dentistry? When Is It Necessary?
As the name implies, sedation dentistry is the addition of safe sedation to dental procedures. In that sense, it’s really no different from regular dentistry practices. Sedation doesn’t change the procedure; it’s just there to help you relax through the process. Mostly, sedation is an option, never a necessity.
Why Choose Sedation Dentistry? Is It Safe?
Sedation dentistry is certainly safe. It only exists to help make a procedure easier for you. Keep in mind that most dental procedures are virtually painless, and there’s a lot a dentist can do to make you more comfortable. However, if you can’t put your anxiety aside, then it’s a good idea to request sedation dentistry.
What Types of Sedation Are There?
There are various types of sedation, and not all dentists use or have access to all the same methods. In general, there are two very common sedation methods for dentistry.
Inhalation sedation methods – One of the most common forms of sedation is nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas.” It’s often used to relax you and ease anxiety. It’s not something that will put you “under.” In fact, the effects of it aren’t long lasting, so you may need to inhale it a few times during a procedure.
Oral sedation methods – Oral sedation methods involve the use of anti-anxiety tablets you can take before the procedure. Often, this relaxation medicine is enough for many people. In cases where it’s not, the dentist may combine it with the aforementioned nitrous oxide.
What Does Sedation Feel Like?
Sedation will put you into a half-sleep, half-awake state. You will still have your faculties about you. For example, you can respond to simple yes and no questions. Otherwise, you will enter a comfortable state of uncaring. In this way, the procedure can go by in a flash, and you won’t have to fully experience every single aspect of it.
How Does the Sedation Process Work?
To start with, your dentist will have to review your medical history to ascertain which, if any, sedation method may work for you. You will need to discuss it beforehand, so both you and the dentist can prepare for it ahead of your visit.
Generally, you will take an oral sedation pill before your scheduled appointment. As previously mentioned, the oral sedation may be enough for you. If you and your dentist feel you require some additional relaxation, then the nitrous oxide can enhance the effects of the pill. From there, it’s business as usual.
Why Lodi Valley Dental Is a Great Choice for Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry requires a level of skill and expertise. You’ll want a practiced dental professional who knows how to administer sedation methods without even the possibility of a complication.
At Lodi Valley Dental, we have safe sedation dentistry options, and we know how to use them properly, safely and effectively. If you’re curious about sedation dentistry or feel you can benefit from it, contact us today.