December 26, 2024
Have you avoided your dentist because the sights and sounds of their office put you on edge? Do you struggle with a sensitive gag reflex that makes it difficult to relax in the treatment chair? Do you need extensive restorative or cosmetic care? If so, you may have come across sedation dentistry in your research, leading you to wonder which type is best for you, how long the effects last, and if it’s really worth it. You can find out the answers to common questions like these below!
1. Is There Anything I Should Do Prior to Being Sedated?
Prior to your appointment, your dentist will provide you with instructions on what to do and what not to do. Typically, that includes not smoking, not drinking alcohol, and not eating in the hours leading up to your appointment. As for what you should do, you should arrange for someone you know and trust to drive you to and from your appointment, you should stock up on anything you need for the recovery period, like OTC pain medication, and you should choose something comfortable to wear the morning of your appointment.
2. Which Type of Dental Sedation Is Right for Me?
There are three different types of dental sedation: nitrous oxide sedation, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. The one that’s ideal for you will depend on a few factors, including the level of anxiety you experience. For example, if you struggle with relatively mild nerves during your time in the treatment chair, nitrous oxide (also known as “laughing gas”) may be all that’s needed to keep you calm and comfortable. If you struggle with more moderate anxiety or need extensive restorative care, like multiple tooth extractions, then oral conscious sedation may be more ideal.
3. How Long Do the Effects of Sedation Dentistry Last?
That depends on the type of sedation dentistry you choose. One of the many reasons nitrous oxide is widely loved is because the effects dissipate almost instantly. So, patients can return to their regular routine immediately following their appointment – they can even drive themselves home! More powerful sedatives, however, require someone to drive you to and from your appointment since the effects linger for several hours.
4. Is Sedation Dentistry Worth It?
If dental-related anxiety prevents you from getting the care you need or you aren’t able to relax comfortably in the treatment chair because you have a sensitive gag reflex, then sedation dentistry is absolutely worth it. After all, it makes nerves, stress, and worry completely dissipate – sometimes in as little as a few minutes too. As a result, getting the preventive, restorative, or cosmetic dental care you need is stress-free instead of stressful.
About the Practice
Our team at Village Walk Dental shares a goal of helping each patient get the dental care they need in a positive, relaxing, and comfortable environment. For some, that requires sedation dentistry, which is why we offer oral conscious sedation! If you are interested in learning more about this calming solution, take the next step: schedule a consultation with us via our website or by phone at (619) 482-7367.