If you dread the dentist, you’re not alone — it’s estimated that as many as a third of Americans deal with some sort of dental fear. But when that anxiety turns into a barrier that prevents you from receiving the oral care you need, you’ve got a problem. That’s why Cowlitz River Dental is happy to provide options in sedation dentistry. From light nitrous oxide to oral conscious and IV sedation, we can help you evaluate your need for sedation and proceed appropriately to help you relax your way through your next dental appointment.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a light form of sedation administered through a nasal mask. Patients breathe in the gas throughout their treatment to float through the dental appointment, worry-free. Nitrous oxide is combined with a local anesthesia to prevent any discomfort at the treatment site, and unlike with other forms of sedation, the effects of nitrous oxide wear off as soon as the procedure is over and the mask is removed. Nitrous oxide is safe for use in patients of all ages undergoing any dental treatment — especially minor procedures, like fillings.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Patients dealing with moderate levels of anxiety related to the dentist may wish for a deeper level of sedation than nitrous oxide offers. For them, oral conscious sedation provides big relief. It’s administered with a pill the patient takes orally about an hour before the appointment. By the time they’re settling into the dental chair, its relaxing effects have started to take over. The patient remains in a comfortable state throughout the procedure, conscious but removed from their previous worry.
Oral conscious sedation is also a good choice for patients wishing to undergo longer procedures in just one visit to the dentist, or those whose mobility issues prevent them from sitting in the dental chair for long periods of time.
IV Sedation
For more intense levels of anxiety and for more complex procedures in Castle Rock, WA, like dental implants or wisdom teeth removal, IV sedation provides the ultimate in comfort. This type of sedation goes directly into the vein for immediate results, and can easily be adjusted throughout the procedure as needed. IV sedation allows patients to remain conscious throughout their procedure while also completely alleviating their fear and discomfort. While you’re still conscious under IV sedation, you’re removed from the sights, smells, and sounds of what’s going on around you. Many patients doze in and out throughout their time under IV sedation dentistry in Castle Rock WA.
Ready To Relax At The Dentist? Call Us Today!
You can relax your way through your next dental appointment. Can’t believe it? Give sedation dentistry a try! Nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation can be used to help you overcome your dental fear to make it through any dental treatment — from oral surgery to cleanings, from periodontal therapy to fillings in Castle Rock WA. Please request your appointment today!