Sedation Dentistry

Mom and daughter

For many people, visiting the dentist can be a source of anxiety or fear. Whether it’s due to a past experience, the fear of needles, social anxiety, or a general sense of unease, dental anxiety can prevent individuals from seeking the care they need. 

Making Dental Care Comfortable and Stress-Free 

Sedation dentistry offers a solution, providing a safe and effective way to reduce anxiety and make dental procedures more comfortable. 

If you want to explore what sedation dentistry is, the types of sedation available, and if you can benefit from this approach then call our dental office today and schedule an appointment.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. The level of relaxation and comfort varies depending on the type of sedation used.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Since there are several levels and methods of sedation used in dentistry, we are able to tailor the sedation option to your needs and the complexity of the procedure.

Minimal Sedation

Minimal sedation allows you to remain awake but feel relaxed. This level of sedation is often achieved using nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas.”

Administered through a mask placed over the nose, nitrous oxide induces a sense of calm and well-being. The effects wear off quickly, allowing patients to drive themselves home after the procedure. This is a great option for children.

Moderate Sedation 

Sometimes referred to as oral conscious sedation, this puts you in a more relaxed state, but you remain awake and able to respond to instructions.

Oral conscious sedation taken in pill form before the procedure, oral sedation ranges from minimal to moderate, depending on the dosage. Patients may feel drowsy but remain conscious. It is usually necessary for these patients to receive a ride home after treatment to ensure safety.

General Anesthesia

If you are going to have a more complex procedure or experience extreme anxiety, this type of sedation may be used. General anesthesia renders you completely unconscious. It requires a specialist to administer and monitor you throughout the process. You will be fully unconscious and require time to recover after the procedure.

To find out what sedation option is right for you, call Crete Smiles today and speak with our dental team before your treatment.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry offers numerous benefits, making it a great option for patients who might otherwise avoid dental care.

  • Reduced Anxiety
  • Increased Comfort
  • Perform Complex Procedures
  • Reduced Gag Reflex
  • Improved Cooperation

Sedation is great for patients with a strong gag reflex so they can undergo treatment comfortably and patients that may have special needs or have trouble sitting still. There may be treatments that cannot be completed without sedation to make sure that you are not experiencing any pain and to limit movement during the procedure.

Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is suitable for a wide range of patients, but it’s essential to determine whether it’s the right choice for you. Some of the key factors that would make you a good candidate for sedation dentistry are:

  • Dental Anxiety or Phobia: If the thought of visiting the dentist causes significant stress or fear, sedation can help you relax so you can receive the care you need.
  • Complex Dental Issues: Those requiring extensive dental work may benefit from sedation to complete multiple procedures in one session.
  • Physical Limitations: Sedation can assist patients who have difficulty remaining still or those with physical conditions that make dental visits challenging.
  • Children: Pediatric patients who are anxious, uncooperative, or require extensive dental work can benefit from sedation to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
  • Low Pain Threshold: If you are highly sensitive to pain or have had uncomfortable experiences in the past, sedation can help make your visit more pleasant.
  • Strong Gag Reflex: The sedation will help you relax so that you don’t feel any pain and your gag reflex isn’t triggered.

If you relate to one or more of these factors then you may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry.

Preparing for Sedation Dentistry

If you are considering sedation dentistry, you might want to prepare for your appointment to ensure the best experience.

Consultation

During this stage the dentist will discuss your medical history, any medications you’re taking, and your level of anxiety with dental treatment. This will help determine the most appropriate type of sedation for you.

Transportation

If you are receiving moderate sedation or general anesthesia, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment.

Post-Procedure Care

Depending on the type of sedation used, you may need to rest for a few hours after your procedure. Your dentist will provide specific instructions for your recovery.

Experience a Stress-Free Dental Experience at Crete Smiles

Sedation dentistry has revolutionized the way patients experience dental care, offering a solution for those who struggle with anxiety, fear, or discomfort. Talk to your dentist today and take the first step towards a healthier, stress-free smile.