Blog

Sedation dentistry refers to a technique used to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are many different levels of sedation, and your provider will work with you to determine which is most appropriate for you.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Some patients have anxiety about going to the dentist’s office, and this can keep them from getting the treatment they need to maintain good oral health. If this sounds like you, you are not alone. Some people are just naturally nervous when faced with a visit to the dentist’s office, but other people are afraid of having dental treatment done because of past traumatizing experiences with a dentist or from unpleasant sounds or other stimuli associated with dental care procedures. One way to help calm a patient’s nerves is to give them some form of sedation dentistry.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

• Oral sedation

Oral conscious sedation involves taking an oral medication such as a pill that will put the patient into a state of calm relaxation during his or her appointment at the dental office. While the patient is sedated, he/she will be awake and responsive but will not feel anxious or uncomfortable about the treatment and will be able to have it done without a lot of pain or discomfort.

• Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is the most common form of sedation used in dental office. Patients inhale the gas through a mask that covers the mouth and nose. The dentist can control how much the patient receives by adjusting the flow of the nitrous oxide through the mask. Because the effects wear off quickly, patients are able to drive themselves home after the procedure is complete. The effects of nitrous oxide are so mild that patients often have no recollection of the treatment at all once its effects have worn off.

• IV sedation

IV sedation is administered intravenously and can cause most patients to sleep during the procedure. However, the dosage can be adjusted to keep the patient awake if necessary. Patients usually recover quickly after this type of sedation. It is generally recommended for patients with a strong gag reflex or who have trouble sitting still. 

Why Choose Sedation Dentistry?

There are many reasons why patients choose sedation to help with their dental treatments. For patients who are nervous about visiting the dentist or experiencing dental anxiety, sedation can help them feel at ease during procedures. Most patients who experience dental anxiety are anxious about the sights, sounds, and smells of the dental office. Sedation can help put them at ease during these treatments.

Patients who struggle with dental anxiety may have trouble sitting still in the dentist’s chair for long periods of time. With sedation, they will be completely relaxed and able to sit still for longer periods of time. This lets dentists perform longer, more complex treatments, which are very important for dental health. Sedation dentistry can also benefit patients with a sensitive gag reflex, difficulty getting numb, etc.

If you’re interested in learning more about sedation dentistry and how it can help you, call our dentist today to schedule a consultation. You can call us at (209) 554-1700 or visit our clinic located at 1317 Oakdale Rd Suite 310, Modesto, California 95355.