If you’re overdue to see the dentist, then you’re in good company. Millions of Americans avoid the dentist year after year because they’re afraid of dental procedures. The sights and sounds in a dentist’s office—combined with the uncomfortable feeling of someone else’s fingers in your mouth—can be reason enough for some people to ignore their dental health. There is, however, a solution. Dr. L. Blaine Kennington at Cowlitz River Dental in Castle Rock, WA, offers sedation dentistry, so you can relax while we take care of your teeth and gums.
Three Types of Sedation Dentistry
Regardless of whether your dental anxiety runs high or low, or whether your treatment time will be short or long, Cowlitz River Dental has the sedation technique for you. For patients who simply need to take the edge off of their anxiety, nitrous oxide may be the ideal choice. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is delivered in combination with oxygen through a nose mask worn during your dental treatment. As you inhale this gas, you’ll feel calm and light. Once the mask is removed, the effects wear off quickly, so you’ll be able to carry on with your day as usual.
With oral conscious sedation, Dr. Kennington prescribes an anti-anxiety medication that you’ll take at a designated time before your procedure. While you will not be asleep during treatment, you will be completely relaxed and may not remember anything afterwards. Likewise with IV sedation, which administers a sedative through your bloodstream. Dr. Kennington can speak to you during both of these types of sedation and you’ll be able to respond, but may not recall speaking when your treatment ends. And with both oral sedation and IV sedation, you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you to the appointment and take you home.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you’re overdue for an appointment with the dentist, then call Cowlitz River Dental and ask about sedation dentistry. We conveniently serve patients in Castle Rock, WA, as well as Kelso, Longview and Lewis County and the surrounding area.