What if, instead of anxiety or fear, the moments leading up to dental procedures — and during the procedures themselves — brought with them tranquility and calm? Thanks to sedation dentistry, they can!
Patients are conscious during the majority of procedures performed with sedation dentistry. As a result, ensuring a peaceful and pain-free atmosphere for any procedure is hugely beneficial for the patient and the professionals performing the procedure. Coupled with a warm and empathetic “chairside manner,” sedation dentistry creates this stress-free environment. More often than not, the result is a stress-free procedure for everyone involved and optimal results for the patient.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses different medications to help patients feel calm, comfortable, and pain-free during complex or invasive dental procedures. The medications typically used in sedation dentistry can be administered in a variety of different ways. The type of sedation used depends on multiple factors, including the patient's specific needs and preferences, and the length and complexity of the procedure being performed.
Sedation Options for Anxious Patients
There is a range of non-general anesthesia sedation options used in dentistry. The effects of these different sedation techniques can be relatively mild or quite deep, depending on the needs of a particular patient or procedure:
- Nitrous Oxide — Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is administered through a mask over the nose and induces relaxation during minor, non-invasive procedures.
- Oral Sedatives — More potent than nitrous oxide, oral sedatives like Valium and Halcion are prescribed to a patient ahead of time and meant to be taken shortly before a procedure.
- IV Sedation — This refers to the administration of a sedative directly into the bloodstream. IV sedation induces a deep relaxation during more invasive procedures like tooth extractions and root canals. IV sedation sometimes leaves patients with little recollection of their procedures.
A Calming Dental Experience With Sedation Dentistry in Mount Pleasant, SC
If you are in the Mount Pleasant area and would like to learn more about the many benefits of sedation options for anxious patients, contact Jason Annan and the friendly and knowledgeable East Cooper Smiles team to schedule a consultation!