Are you anxious or fearful about going to the dentist? Do you avoid routine dental check-ups or necessary procedures because of this fear? If so, sedation dentistry in Broken Arrow may be an excellent option for you.
Sedation dentistry allows patients to receive dental treatments comfortably and without fear or anxiety. Remain calm and relaxed during your dental procedures, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile. Your oral health is important; sedation dentistry allows you to receive the care you need without fear or anxiety.
So, next time you have a dentist’s appointment, remember that sedation dentistry can be a great option. Here’s some information on what it is and what you can expect during a sedation dentistry procedure.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax and feel at ease during dental procedures. It is a safe and effective way to manage fear, anxiety, or discomfort related to dental treatments.
The level of sedation used can range from mild relaxation to deep sleep, depending on the patient’s needs and the type of procedure. Sedation dentistry is often used for patients who have had traumatic dental experiences in the past, fear needles or the sounds and smells of a dental office, or simply have a difficult time sitting still for long periods.
Your dentist may offer different types of sedation dentistry. The most common types of sedation used in dentistry are:
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a colorless and odorless gas that is inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose. It produces a feeling of relaxation and euphoria, allowing patients to remain conscious but calm during their dental treatment.
Nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation and wears off quickly, making it safe for patients to drive themselves home after their appointments. We often use it for routine procedures such as cleanings or fillings.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication, such as a pill or liquid, before your dental procedure. Depending on the dose and your response, the medication can provide mild to moderate sedation.
Patients who receive oral sedation may feel drowsy and relaxed during their appointment but can still communicate with their dentist. The medication’s effects can last several hours after the procedure, so patients need someone to drive them home.
IV Sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation involves administering medication directly into a patient’s vein, allowing for quick and precise control of the level of sedation. This type of sedation is often used for more complex procedures or for patients with severe dental anxiety.
During IV sedation, patients are in a state of deep relaxation and may not remember much about their procedure once it is over. The effects of IV sedation can last for several hours, so patients will need someone to drive them home and should plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is used for extensive dental procedures or for patients who are unable to tolerate other forms of sedation due to medical conditions or severe anxiety. It involves putting a patient into a deep sleep, where they will be completely unaware of their surroundings and not feel any pain or discomfort.
General anesthesia is administered by an anesthesiologist in a hospital setting and requires the patient to stay overnight for monitoring. It is considered the most potent form of sedation dentistry and should only be used when necessary.
What to Expect During a Sedation Dentistry Procedure
Before your sedation dentistry procedure, your dentist will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the best type of sedation for you. They will also review your medical conditions and medications to ensure no potential interactions.
On the day of your appointment, following any instructions provided by your dentist, such as avoiding food or drink before the procedure, is essential. If you are receiving oral or IV sedation, you must have someone accompany you to and from your appointment.
You will be monitored closely during the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort. Once we finish the procedure, you may feel groggy or sleepy, and it is vital to rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day.
Sedation Dentistry in Broken Arrow
Sedation dentistry is a valuable tool for patients who struggle with dental anxiety or fear. It allows individuals to receive the necessary dental care without the emotional distress that may accompany it.
If you want to explore sedation dentistry and how it can benefit you, talk to Dr. Torabi, Dr. Patel, Dr. Ghazal, or Dr. Fazli at Flawless Smile Dentistry today. They can assess your needs and recommend the best type of sedation for you, allowing you to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile without any fear or anxiety.
Don’t let dental fear hold you back from achieving optimal oral health – consider sedation dentistry and say goodbye to dental anxiety for good. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and find out how sedation dentistry can benefit you! We offer many quality dental services in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, including cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry.
