Sedation Dentistry

Fear of the dentist is a common phobia that keeps many patients from visiting their dentist. Are you among them? 

If you are, we would be happy to talk to you about the benefits of sedation dentistry. Using sedation dentistry, we can help you alleviate anxiety so you can face your appointments with greater confidence and comfort.

Our sedation dentistry options include nitrous oxide and oral sedation.

What Is Oral Sedation?

Oral sedation works using a safe and commonly prescribed sedative or anti-anxiety medication. On the day of your procedure, you'll take your prescription at a pre-determined time before your appointment. Your anxiety level will determine the precise dosage for you to take. 

As your medication takes effect, you'll feel your anxiety dissolve into a sense of peace and relaxation. Some patients even become so relaxed they drift off into a restful sleep.

During your procedure, our team will closely monitor your vital signs, ensuring your safety. Afterwards, you'll need to have a friend or family member drive you home. The effects of your sedative will wear off later that day, and you'll be able to return to your normal activities by the following day.

What is IV Sedation?

Intravenous (IV) sedation offers patients the ability to achieve a relaxed, “twilight” state similar to that experienced during oral conscious sedation with the added benefit of being administered 100% under doctor supervision. This allows our team to adjust dosage for optimal relaxation throughout treatment.

The dentist inserts an IV drip with a sedative medication, and we monitor vitals throughout the procedure. Following treatment, the effects of sedation may take a significant amount of time to abate. Patients should plan to have a friend or family member accompany them to and from their appointment, and resume regular activities the following day.

Other Reasons for Choosing Sedation Dentistry

While anxiety is the most common reason for choosing sedation dentistry, it's not the only one. Other common reasons include:

• Having a sensitive gag reflex
• An inability to respond to local anesthetic
• An inability to sit comfortably because of neck or back problems
• A desire to complete multiple procedures in a single visit

Would you like to learn more about how oral sedation and nitrous oxide work? Our Happy Valley team would be happy to answer your questions. Simply give our office a call to speak with someone in our front office.