We believe in providing the best possible dental care to our patients, and a major part of this is making sure they are relaxed and comfortable in our office. We know that many feel strong anxiety and fear when visiting the dentist, so we want to alleviate this whenever possible. After all, one is less likely to visit us for check-ups and exams if they are overcome with nervousness. Because of this, we are proud to provide sedation to our patients. In today’s blog, your Leawood, KS dentist discusses the different kinds of sedation we offer.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is also known as laughing gas, and it is one of the most common and mildest forms of sedation. It works quickly and is very effective — not to mention safe. If this is the appropriate relaxant for you, your dentist will mix the nitrous oxide with oxygen and have you breathe it in through your nose via a small mask. It effectively alleviates anxiety while also decreasing potential pain. It works by slowing down your nervous system, which creates a relaxing feeling. One of the notable advantages of this gas is that it allows you to stay awake during the procedure. This is so you can hear and answer any questions your dentist or oral surgeon asks you. It also allows you to communicate any issues or discomfort you may feel. Once the procedure is completed, the gas should fully leave your system once you breathe in oxygen for about five minutes.
Oral Sedation
If you need something a little stronger than nitrous oxide, your dentist may suggest oral sedation. It is for those who experience a lot of anxiety and fear at the dentist’s office. If you opt for this method, you will take a pill before you arrive at the appointment. This is to ensure that it is working by the time you get to the office. In some cases, we will also have you take another dose the night before your scheduled appointment to ensure you have had a sufficient amount of sleep. Because this method has lingering effects, you will need someone to drop you off and pick you up. In addition to mitigating nervousness and fear, this can also be a good option for more invasive, yet non-surgical procedures like receiving porcelain veneers.
IV Sedation
This is the strongest type of sedation we offer before requiring general anesthesia. You are still will conscious and responsive when receiving it, but you will be completely relaxed and a bit out of it. It is ideal for more invasive procedures and for patients that have a significant fear of visiting the dentist.
It is administered directly into your bloodstream, and it begins working within minutes. It can cause amnesia in many patients, so you will not remember the procedure by the time its effects wear off. Because it is administered continuously, you will be relaxed for as long as necessary. This means that your dentist can perform multiple procedures in a single visit. Because of its stronger effects, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure is done.
Contact Us To Learn More About Dental Sedation
We want our patients to feel as relaxed as possible when they visit us, so please do not hesitate to ask us about our sedation options. To schedule an appointment, please contact Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS by calling 913-681-5500.
