A significant number of Americans avoid regular dental visits due to fear or dental anxiety. Sedation dentistry provides a safe and anxiety-free option, allowing patients to receive the dental care they need comfortably.

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Understanding Sedation Dentistry

Contrary to popular belief, sedation dentistry does not necessarily induce sleep. Most sedatives allow patients to remain awake while feeling relaxed and calm. Nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation reduce anxiety throughout the procedure without causing pain.

Oral sedatives are convenient because they can often be taken by mouth, avoiding needles and providing a stress-free experience. Some sedatives are so effective that patients may have little memory of the procedure afterward. Safety and compliance are prioritized, and a caregiver should accompany the patient, especially if sedatives are administered the night before the appointment.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

  • Anxiety is alleviated
  • Few side effects
  • More can be accomplished during each visit
  • No needles
  • No pain
  • Safe and reliable
  • Procedures feel shorter

Types of Sedation

The level of sedation can vary from mild to deep depending on the patient’s needs. The dentist will review the patient’s medical history and current medications before administering any sedative.

Nitrous Oxide

Also called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a mild sedative delivered through a nose hood during the procedure. It reduces anxiety, alleviates pain, and can produce a tingling or numbing sensation. Side effects are minimal, and it has a long history of safe use in dentistry.

IV Sedation

Intravenous sedation is moderate sedation administered directly into the bloodstream. Patients often report feeling as if they slept through the procedure. Effects are immediate, and grogginess may occur afterward, so a designated driver is necessary.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral sedation is ideal for patients who fear needles. A pill is taken prior to the appointment to reduce anxiety and dull the senses. Most patients have minimal memory of the pain, smells, or noises of the procedure. Medication may be topped up during treatment if necessary.

Common Drugs in Oral Conscious Sedation

  • Valium®: Long half-life, used for complex procedures, has amnesic properties.
  • Halcion®: Short half-life, effective sedative for shorter procedures, also has amnesic properties.
  • Ativan®: Medium half-life, reduces anxiety, used for procedures under two hours.
  • Versed®: Shortest half-life, used for visits under 30 minutes, alleviates anxiety like nitrous oxide.

If you have questions or concerns about sedation dentistry, please contact our Imperial Dentistry office for more information.