For many people, visiting the dentist can be a stressful and anxiety-inducing experience. Fortunately, sedation dentistry can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures. Whether it is a mild sedative like nitrous oxide or a more powerful medication like IV sedation, Coral Gables sedation dentistry can make your experience at the dentist much more pleasant. It can help you overcome your fear of dental treatments and receive the necessary care without discomfort or anxiety.
When to consider sedation dentistry
Sedation dentistry is a form of dental treatment involving medication to help you relax during dental procedures. You may need to consider if you experience dental anxiety, have difficulty sitting still for extended periods, have a strong gag reflex, or have sensitive teeth. Your provider may also recommend sedation dentistry for complex dental procedures. Additionally, this treatment can help you avoid pain or discomfort during the procedure, making your overall experience more pleasant. However, sedation dentistry is only appropriate for some, and you should discuss your options with your dentist to determine if it is the best choice.
Types of sedation dentistry
You can inform your doctor about your dental anxiety or fear during your initial consultation. Afterward, they may suggest one of the following options to may your experience pleasant.
- Oral sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a pill or liquid medication before the dental procedure to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. The medication can range from mild to moderate in strength, depending on the dosage and your needs. You will typically take the medication one hour before your scheduled procedure, and the effects can last for several hours. This makes it an ideal option for patients who experience dental anxiety or fear needles or injections. However, oral sedation can cause drowsiness, so you should arrange for a loved one to drive you to and from your appointment and avoid operating heavy machinery for the remainder of the day.
- Intravenous (IV) sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation involves the injection of a sedative medication directly into your bloodstream through a vein in your arm. The medication induces deep relaxation and drowsiness, allowing you to remain conscious and responsive but unaware of the dental procedure being performed. The Gables Sedation & Family Dentistry team recommends IV sedation for more complex dental procedures, such as oral surgery and implant placement. They can adjust the level of sedation accordingly to ensure you remain comfortable and relaxed. IV sedation is generally safe but requires a recovery period following the procedure.
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is a popular sedation dentistry option administered through a mask that fits over the nose. The gas is a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, which you breathe in during the procedure. It is a mild sedative that can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during dental treatments. One key benefit of nitrous oxide is that it takes effect quickly and wears off just as quickly, meaning you can drive yourself home after the procedure and resume your daily activities without needing a caregiver.
Don’t allow fear or anxiety to interfere with your dental appointments when Gables Sedation & Family Dentistry offers sedation dentistry. Call or make an appointment online for more information.
