What is sedation dentistry? It is the term applied to the efforts made by sedation dentists to make a dental visit as comfortable as possible for the patient. Our focus on comfort has earned sedation dentistry the descriptive nickname “pain-free dentistry“.
Though nearly all of our patients at our office are candidates for pain-free dentistry, it’s standard that your sedation dentists meet with you first to ensure there is no health hazards that would compromise your treatment.
Our pain-free dentistry patients typically experience one or many of the following:
-Dental anxiety
-Trouble sitting in a dental chair for longer lengths of time
-Fear of needles
-Traumatic past dental experiences
-Low pain threshold
-Heightened sensitivity when in the dental office
Our dentists utilize three primaries, safe and effective, pain-free dentistry options: nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas), oral sedation, or IV sedation. (will you attach the photos for each area described below)
LAUGHING GAS | Laughing gas is commonly used to help patients “take the edge off” their visit and help them feel relaxed during treatment. It is a great relaxation tool that can be used on all ages, children to adults!
Laughing gas is administered via a small breathing tube placed under the nose.
Laughing gas is probably the most commonly used sedation dentistry option. It is very effective and easy to use and has no zero lasting side effects. Once you have breathed 100% oxygen for 2 minutes, after the gas is turned off, you are good to go!
ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION | It is simply a pill administered orally before treatment for patients. This sedative will cause you to feel completely comfortable and calm during your visit.
IV SEDATION | Intravenous (IV) sedation refers to the administering of an anti-anxiety drug into the bloodstream during your dental treatment. The sedative helps you relax and feel at peace. While you will be in a position to respond to the dentist’s questions, your treatment procedure will be vague once the sedative wears off.
Benefits of IV sedation dentistry
-The effects of sedatives administered through the bloodstream are achieved in a shorter duration.
-IV sedation is suitable for patients with gag reflex.
-IV sedation does not affect body processes, but only eliminates your ability to feel pain. Thus, you will be able to breathe or even move on your own. This also makes it easy for the dentist to identify any abnormalities during the procedure and respond swiftly.
-The dentist can perform multiple procedures in one visit. This means that patients who need extensive dental care can receive treatments in fewer visits. This not only reduces the fear and apprehension associated with dental visits but also cuts down on dental care costs.
-The amnesic state typical of IV sedation implies that the patient has little or no recollection of what happened during the procedure. The patient is not aware of the smells, sounds, and sights of the procedure or the dental office.
Is IV sedation dentistry right for you?
IV sedation is an excellent option if you are apprehensive of needles, the dentist, or dental procedures. Your dentist may also recommend this form of sedation if you are undergoing such procedures as complex root canals, implant placement, and extractions. You may also opt for IV sedation if you experience dental anxiety, and you need to undergo multiple dental procedures.
You will need to talk to Dr. Rencher or Dr. Veigel to find out what sedation or analgesic technique is suitable for you. During your appointment, inform your dentist if you are under any medication, whether prescribed or over-the-counter.