Most patients choose sedation dentistry in Palm Beach Gardens to ensure a stress-free and comfortable experience at the dentist. Whether you’re scheduled to receive a basic dental cleaning or undergo an invasive procedure, you’ll want to know which type of dental sedation is right for you. We’re here to help you make an informed decision.
A Closer Look at the Different Types of Dental Sedation
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is the mildest form of sedation. This colorless and odorless gas is combined with oxygen and administered via inhalation using a simple face mask. Inhaling this sedating gas can make you feel slightly lightheaded before you experience a feeling of well-being.Despite its rapid onset, this sedating gas has no lingering effects. Moreover, it won’t affect your ability to interact with and respond to the dentist or drive home without assistance.
Oral Sedation
Depending on the dose, prescription oral sedatives such as Halcion, Xanax, Ativan, and Valium provide mild to moderate sedation. While you’ll feel the medication’s effects kicking in an hour after taking it, they usually last for several hours. Besides causing drowsiness, oral sedation will diminish your awareness of sounds and smells during treatment. It won’t impact your ability to breathe independently and generally has a low incidence of side effects. Moreover, the dental team will monitor your vitals throughout the procedure.
IV Sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation dentistry, also known as conscious sedation, is a safe and precise technique ideal for patients with moderate to more severe levels of dental anxiety. The dentist administers the medication through a needle inserted in a vein. The most commonly used drugs include Demerol, Fentanyl, Propofol, Valium, and Versed.You’ll be relaxed and comfortable during your procedure and have no memory of most of what happens while your dentist works on your teeth. The dental team will monitor your breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Additionally, your dentist can adjust the dosage and use reversal medications if necessary.
Considering Sedation Dentistry in Palm Beach Gardens?
At Prestige Periodontics, we provide exceptional service and quality care to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Does your dental anxiety cause you to avoid the treatment you desperately need? Be glad to know that sedation dentistry in Palm Beach Gardens can help you relax while your dentist works on your teeth. We’re here to help you make an informed decision by debunking the persistent myths surrounding this treatment procedure.
Common Misconceptions About Sedation Dentistry
MISCONCEPTION #1: “Dentists use only one kind of sedation.”
Oral sedation refers to a sedative taken in pill form an hour before your procedure. You’ll feel calm and relaxed when you reach your dentist’s office. While the level of sedation depends on the dosage, its effects typically last for several hours. For this reason, it’s best to have a family member or friend drive you home after your appointment.
Nitrous oxide
This type of sedation is ideal for patients who have mild anxiety. It involves inhaling a colorless and odorless nitrous oxide gas, also known as laughing gas, through a mask placed over your face. Since this is a low-impact sedative, you can drive yourself home or get back to work right after your procedure.
IV sedation
This type of sedation works faster than other methods because the dentist administers the sedative directly to your bloodstream via a needle inserted into a vein. Moreover, they’ll monitor your vitals throughout your procedure and adjust the level of sedation as needed. Since its effects don’t wear off quickly, you’ll need someone to drive you home.
MISCONCEPTION #2: “Dental sedation is for everyone.”
Although most patients make good candidates for dental sedation, it’s not an option for someone pregnant before the second trimester, allergic to the sedative being used, or taking medication that shouldn’t mix with the sedative. Moreover, dentists don’t recommend sedation dentistry to patients with chronic bronchitis.
MISCONCEPTION #3: “Dental sedation is only for major surgical procedures.”
Dental sedation isn’t reserved for root canal treatment and periodontal work. Your dentist can use sedation dentistry such as nitrous oxide and oral sedation to help you sit comfortably in the dental chair through routine and basic procedures.
Considering Sedation Dentistry in Palm Beach Gardens?
At Prestige Periodontics, we offer various dental sedation options based on your needs. Contact us today to make an appointment.
