A significant number of Americans do not visit the dentist for regular checkups because they are too fearful or suffer from dental anxiety.  Sedation dentistry offers an excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety-free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.

Sedation dentistry is often mistakenly thought to induce sleep.  In fact, most sedatives allow the patient to stay awake during the procedure.  Sleepiness is a side effect of some medications, but nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation and IV sedation only work to calm anxiety throughout the dental visit.

Sedation dentistry is popular because most sedatives can be taken by mouth, meaning no injections, no anxiety and no pain.  Some sedatives work so effectively that even the smells and details of the procedure cannot be recalled afterwards.  Safety and compliance are two important aspects of treatments, so sedation dentistry offers both the individual and the dentist the best alternative.

Whatever the form of sedative, it is essential to be accompanied by a caregiver.  Sometimes, sedatives are provided the night before the dental visit, which means that driving to or from the appointment is not advisable.

Here are some advantages associated with sedation dentistry:

• Anxiety is alleviated.
• Few side effects.
• More can be accomplished during each visit.
• No needles.
• No pain.
• Perfectly safe.
• Procedures seem to take less time.

What kinds of sedatives are available?

Depending on the health and airway of the patient, different options may be available. Only what is determined appropriate and safe is offered.

We offer two types of sedation: nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation using a prescribed tablet.  Before administering any sedative, the dentist must analyze the full medical history of the patient, taking note of any current medications.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is used as a mild sedative.  It is delivered through a nose hood, and is administered throughout the entire procedure.  Nitrous oxide elevates the general mood and can evoke a general sense of well-being.  Most importantly, it relieves anxiety and reduces pain during the procedure.  In addition, some tingling and numbness may be felt. There are few side effects associated with nitrous oxide, and it has been safely used in dentistry for many years. The patient should not have eaten for 4-6 hours before administration of nitrous oxide.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is an excellent choice for people who fear the dentist.  Oral medication is prescribed prior to treatment in order to induce a moderate state of sedation.  Though oral sedatives do not cause sleep, they usually dull the senses.  This means that most patients have reduced fear and memory of the procedure. A dose of medication is taken prior to the appointment, and more could be taken as required.

What types of drugs are used in oral conscious sedation?

Most of the drugs used in sedation dentistry are classified as benzodiazepines.  Benzodiazepines reduce anxiety, muscle spasms, insomnia and seizures.  Each medication has a different half-life, meaning that the effects last for varying amounts of time.  The estimated length of the procedure determines which type of drug is going to be most effective.

If you have questions or concerns about sedation dentistry, please contact our office.