Sedation Dentistry | Many people have a fear of the dentist. They may feel antsy sitting in a chair for a long period of time. They may be scared of the dentist’s tools. Perhaps they had a painful experience in the past and don’t want to relive it again. Some people have sensitive nerves or a small mouth, making it painful to go to the dentist.
This fear is normal. People of all ages experience anxiety while at the dentist’s office. It is not always a comfortable experience. However, this does not mean you should avoid the dentist entirely. Regular visits are needed to keep teeth clean and healthy and avoid serious oral health issues. By delaying treatment, you are only making matters worse.
If you are scared of the dentist, talk to your dentist about sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry uses medications to help you feel more relaxed in the dentist’s chair. With the right drug administered before or during the procedure, you can relieve your anxiety and get the dental care you need to maintain a healthy smile for life. To learn more about sedation dentistry, call Galleria Dental of Alexandria today.
Types of Medications Used for Sedation Dentistry
Your dentist will decide on local or general anesthesia for your appointment, depending on the procedures to be performed as well as your health history. Make sure to inform your dentist of any health issues or allergies. In addition, keep in mind that only general anesthesia will totally put you to sleep. Likewise, the others will relax you and help you feel more at ease, but you will be awake the entire time.
There are several common types of anesthesia used for Sedation Dentistry
- Nitrous oxide. More commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a gas you inhale through a mask. Nitrous oxide starts working very quickly. It calms you down and wears off quickly, so it is best used for quick procedures. It provides the least amount of sedation. You can usually drive yourself home afterward.
- Oral sedatives. These are drugs that you take before you arrive at the dentist. Diazepam and Halcion are commonly used. You will feel drowsy but relaxed. You may even fall asleep during the procedure. These drugs provide moderate sedation. You will need someone to drive you home afterward.
- IV sedation. Using intravenous drugs, you can achieve deep sedation. Depending on how much drug is used, you can still be somewhat conscious or you can use general anesthesia, which puts you totally asleep. You will not be able to be awakened until the drug wears off. IV sedation works well for longer, more intensive dental procedures, but it also comes with the most risk.
Contact Our Office Today
In general, many people avoid the dentist because of anxiety. Don’t let fear stop you from maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Sedation dentistry can relieve your fears and help you feel more comfortable in the dentist’s chair. At Galleria Dental of Alexandria, we have several options to help you feel more relaxed at your next visit. Call us to schedule an appointment.