As much as our Vernon, CT team wants you to feel comfortable and relaxed in our office, we understand that feeling does not come easily to everyone. Dental anxiety and phobias are very real conditions that prevent patients from getting the care they need and deserve.
If you tend to feel uneasy about dental appointments, we encourage you to ask about dental sedation the next time you call to schedule. With our help, you can finally enjoy your dental appointment!
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry describes the use of medication to relax patients during dental procedures. The implementation of these medicines can be used for a variety of procedures—from simple cleanings to more complex treatments like root canals or wisdom tooth removal.
The Types of Dental Sedation
There are several different types of dental sedation, and the type of sedation used will depend on the procedure being performed, the patient’s medical history, and the recommendation of the dentist. The most common types of sedation used in the dental field are nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is the most common type of sedation used in dentistry. It is a safe and effective way to help patients relax during dental procedures. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask that is placed over the nose, and it works quickly to help patients feel calm and relaxed. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, so patients are able to drive themselves home after their procedure.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is another common type of sedation dentistry. Oral sedatives are taken by mouth in pill form, and they work to help patients relax before and during dental procedures. Oral sedatives can cause drowsiness and may affect vision and speech, so patients using oral sedation should not drive themselves home after their appointment. It is best for a relative or friend to be available to drive the patient home after oral sedation treatment.
The duration of the effects of oral sedatives varies from medication to medication, but most last between four and six hours.
IV Sedation
IV sedatives are administered through an intravenous line, and these medications provide much more intense sedation than oral or inhaled sedatives. Because of this deep relaxation, IV sedation is most commonly used before surgical procedures, such as tooth extraction. Patients who receive IV sedation will likely have no memory of their operation due to its powerful effects. A driver will need to be available to take them home.
The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who experience apprehension when visiting the dentist. The benefits of sedation dentistry include:
- Reduced anxiety and fear: Sedation dentistry can help patients who experience discomfort when visiting the dentist. The sedation can help to relax the patient and make the dental visit more comfortable.
- Improved comfort: Sedation dentistry can also improve comfort during the dental visit by making it easier for the patient to relax and unwind without concentrating on the procedures being performed.
- Increased safety: Sedation dentistry can also help to increase the safety of the dental procedure. The sedation can make it easier for the dentist to perform the treatment without having to work around the behavior of an anxious patient.
Contact our Vernon, CT office today if you’d like to inquire about our sedation services for your next visit!
