Having a pleasant experience at the dentist’s office can be difficult for some people. Whether it is past trauma, a sensitive gag reflex, the inability to sit still, or even a fear of needles, all of these reasons are often why so many individuals put off regular dental care. Fortunately, many dentists now provide sedation dentistry to help calm nerves and ensure positive and enjoyable experiences. If you are considering nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, here are 4 frequently asked questions about sedation dentistry in Castle Rock.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a unique service dentists offer to help patients suffering from dental anxiety. Designed to keep individuals calm and relaxed throughout their visit, it allows professionals to be more efficient when completing a general checkup and cleaning or even a more complex root canal. Sedation is most often used for restorative or emergency treatments, many of which require local anesthesia. However, for patients who have mild, moderate, or severe anxiety, additional sedation can help ensure a safer and more successful experience.
What Types of Sedation Are Available?
Every dentist is different and will offer several types of sedation; however, the three most common are nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Nitrous oxide is often referred to as “laughing gas” and requires patients to wear a mask over their nose to inhale a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. It takes only minutes for an individual to feel the effects, and they dissipate just as quickly once the gas is turned off.
Oral conscious sedation requires patients to take an oral medication prescribed by the dentist at least one hour before treatment. Because it can take time for the effects to wear off, individuals are required to have someone escort them to and from their appointment. Achieving a fully relaxed state, patients may feel as if they’re falling asleep; however, they remain cognizant throughout the procedure. This is often recommended for people who need multiple dental procedures completed in one visit.
IV sedation is more commonly used when a patient experiences extreme dental anxiety or is preparing for complex dental treatment. Administered via an IV into the hand or bend of the elbow, the medication enters the bloodstream to help an individual achieve a deep, relaxed state. The dentist and team members monitor the patient’s vitals the entire time to ensure optimal safety standards. But just like oral conscious sedation, the use of an IV requires an escort to and from the appointment.
What Are the Benefits of Sedation?
Sedation not only offers patients a way to receive necessary dental care that they may have put off previously, but it also:
- Ensures a safer experience for both patients and the dentist
- Allows for treatments to be more efficient
- Creates a positive experience for the patient, which can reduce future episodes of dental anxiety
Who is a Good Candidate for Treatment?
When meeting with a dentist, the patient must be in good general overall health before receiving any form of sedation. If a person experiences any of the following scenarios, however, there is a good chance they’ll be eligible for treatment:
- Mild, moderate, or extreme dental anxiety
- Sensitive gag reflex
- Extensive and complex dental work
- Sensitive teeth and/or gums
- Is unable to sit still for extended periods
With the right method of sedation, you can finally receive the dental care you need. Talk to your dentist about which solution is right for you so your next visit will lend positive and successful results.
About the Author
Do you struggle with dental anxiety? Are you concerned your complex procedure might cause you to become uncomfortable? If so, Dr. L. Blaine Kennington can offer sedation dentistry to make your experience more enjoyable. Dr. Kennington’s experience and training have helped numerous patients change the way they view the dentist’s office. As a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry in Chapel Hill, he spent 12 years as a dentist in the United States Air Force, completing a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry from 1994-1996. After moving to Castle Rock in 2002, he opened his practice and has been helping individuals overcome their dental fears and embrace better oral health. Visit our website or call (360) 703-9092 to learn how we can help you.