Sedation dentistry is any dental procedure where a patient is prescribed a sedative to help them relax during their appointment. The sedation may be in the form of a pill, gas, or injection.

Who can benefit from sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is perfect for patients who suffer from anxiety when it comes to visiting the dentist. Patients with dental phobias, a strong gag reflex, or a sensitive gag reflex are prime candidates for sedation dentistry. Some patients can even benefit from sedation dentistry if they’ve had bad dental experiences in the past.

Oral sedation is a good option for those with moderate to severe dental anxiety. It can help you relax, but you’ll still be awake and able to respond to our staff. Oral sedation can be administered in pill form, IV form, or nitrous oxide.

For patients with mild dental anxiety, nitrous oxide may be a good option. Nitrous oxide is a sweet-smelling gas that is inhaled through a mask over your nose. The gas will help you to relax and feel very calm during your procedure.

What are the types of dental sedation?

There are two main types of sedation that we often recommend:

• Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is an inhaled sedation agent that is safe to use on children. It works quickly, which helps a pediatric patient stay relaxed during dental procedures. The effects wear off quickly, and the patient is able to drive him or herself home after the procedure.

• Oral sedation

Oral sedation is administered as pills that you take at home before you come in. This type of sedation dentistry is typically not recommended for patients with anxiety. It’s more appropriate for patients with a low pain threshold. Oral sedation is not as strong as an IV. You will have to have someone drive you to and from your appointment.

• IV sedation

Sometimes, dental anxiety requires more than just taking a pill. If you have severe dental anxiety that is keeping you from getting necessary dental care, you may benefit from IV sedation. IV sedation is administered intravenously by a trained anesthesiologist.

IV sedation is highly effective at reducing anxiety and producing deep relaxation. In fact, many patients who undergo IV sedation do not remember their dental procedure at all. This means that you can finally get the dental care you need without stress or fear.

• General anesthesia

General anesthesia is administered intravenously and puts you in a deep sleep. It’s often only used for major dental procedures and oral surgeries that require intense work.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Children often have a harder time sitting still in a dentist’s chair. Sedation dentistry is safe and effective for children so they can receive the dental care they need. For some, sedation dentistry can ease dental anxiety.

Even patients who need an extensive amount of work completed will benefit from sedation dentistry. That’s because sedation allows patients to be more at ease throughout their procedures. Patients that are particularly nervous or fearful about going to the dentist’s office may find that sedation dentistry helps them relax.

Schedule an appointment with Lincolnway Dental Center to learn more about good oral hygiene habits. Walk into 648 North Randall Road, Aurora, IL 60506. Contact us at (630) 897-1300 or visit our website for more information.