Do you feel nervous about seeing the dentist? We understand, and we will never minimize your discomfort, we will take time to listen to you about your concerns, and of course answer your questions. But we do offer dental sedation to help patients, even those with special needs and anxiety, enter a deep state of calm. In today’s blog, your Leawood, KS, dentist talks about sedation dentistry and how this can help people obtain the care needed to smile with confidence again!
When You Need a Calming Solution
When do you need dental sedation? As we touched on above, this can help people with a fear of the dentist obtain care without discomfort. If you have special needs or an overactive gag reflex that complicates the treatment process, this can be very beneficial. We also offer this for people undergoing more extensive treatments, so they remain comfortable through the treatment process. Don’t let your fears or anxiety stand between you and good oral health, talk to our team about your options, so you can obtain the stunning results that you deserve.
Assess the Right Option for Your
How do we choose the right option for you? We will take a number of different factors into account. For example, we will look at age, weight, medical history, anxiety levels, and any medications you are currently taking. Any special needs will also be taken into account. We have three different options available to help you enter a deep state of calm, so you can receive the stunning, healthy smile you deserve. You should always arrive on time and wear loose and comfortable clothing. For some options, we may recommend steering clear and food and drink for six to eight hours before the onset of the procedure.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a very common option. This one is mild and good for all ages, from the youngest member of your family to the oldest. You simply wear a mask over your nose and inhale the gas, which helps you enter a state of calm and euphoria. You remain conscious and able to respond to the dentist as needed, and we can adjust the effects throughout the procedure. Once your treatment ends, so do the effects. In fact, many people drive themselves home or return to work or school afterward.
Oral Sedation
If you require a deeper form of calming, then we could offer oral sedation. You will take the medication in a pill or liquid form prior to the procedure. You enter a deeper state of calm, and while you still remain conscious, you will likely have no memory of the procedure. We may recommend avoiding food or drink for the hours before the procedure, and you should wear loose and comfortable clothing. The effects take time to wear off, so you should arrange for a friend or family member to take you home afterward. For some, we may also combine these with nitrous oxide for an even deeper state of calm.
IV Sedation
If you have severe anxiety or are undergoing a more extensive treatment, such as dental implant placement or tooth extraction, then we may recommend the deepest form of sedation. This one is administered intravenously, and you will be monitored by a trained anesthesiologist the entire time. You enter a deep and almost sleep-like state. You will have no memory of the procedure, and again the effects will take time to wear off, so have someone on hand to bring you home afterward.
With all options, we will send you home with any necessary aftercare instructions and prescriptions for medications to aid in the healing process. If you have any questions about how our team will offer a calm and comfortable treatment experience with sedation, or if you would like to schedule a visit soon, let us know. Now is a great time to schedule the first checkup and cleaning of the year, and we can start you on the journey to a full and beautiful smile.
Do You Have Any Questions About Sedation Dentistry?
Our team wants to help you and your family enjoy a positive and comfortable treatment experience. Which is why we offer multiple claim options, as well as treatment using advanced technology and digital systems. You deserve optimal oral health and a positive treatment experience, and we will always strive to offer that for each and every patient. Call Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS by calling (913)681-5500 to learn more. We look forward to hearing from you!
