Types of Sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry is the practice of using sedatives to calm a patient before having a procedure. The sedatives allow patients to feel more relaxed and less anxious while the dentist works on their mouth. Although these medications don’t put a person to sleep, they can help relax the patient so that they’re more at ease during their procedure. Patients who use sedation dentistry report feeling less anxiety and better about their dental care. If you’re nervous about your upcoming dental visit, ask our dentist at About Smiles, if sedation might be right for you.

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry

Oral Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is a mild sedative that causes drowsiness but allows you to be awake and respond to your provider during treatment. Most patients have no memory of the visit, though others remember feeling incredibly relaxed and calm during their procedure. Generally, oral conscious sedation is recommended for patients who experience anxiety or undergo extensive procedures. 

IV Sedation

This method allows patients to become comfortable and relax almost immediately. For more lengthy procedures, such as multiple-visit root canal therapy, it can be especially beneficial because it provides a deeper level of relaxation than oral sedation can. It also allows us to control the level of sedation better so we can adjust it as needed throughout the procedure to ensure you get the optimal level of relaxation and comfort. 

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is administered through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax during treatment. It’s very safe to receive nitrous oxide while pregnant or breastfeeding, and there are no adverse side effects afterward. You’ll also still be able to respond to your dentist’s questions and commands during the procedure.

The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Relaxation

Many patients who feel nervous or even scared about visiting the dentist turn to sedation to help them relax through the procedure. With sedation, we can help these patients relax and ease throughout the process so they can get the care they need without worrying as much about their treatment.

Minimal Pain

Some dental procedures can be time-consuming and require a patient to be in the dentist’s chair for an extended time. This can be uncomfortable for patients with a sensitive gag reflex or other issues that can make the procedure painful. With sedation, we can ensure that these procedures can be completed more efficiently and with minimal discomfort for the patient.

Patients have several reasons for choosing to receive their dental care under sedation: from fear of the dentist to anxiety due to sensitive teeth or a bad gag reflex. To learn more about the benefits of sedation dentistry, contact About Smiles at 2555 Western Trails Blvd., Suite 104, Austin, TX 78745, or call (512) 444-5577.