Which Sedation Option Is Right For You?

Sedation dentistry is popular for a reason. It helps people who are afraid of the dentist or nervous about a procedure receive important dental care. If you are expecting to undergo a dental procedure, you may request some form of sedation.

So, which sedation option is right for you? These are some of the sedation options you should consider.

Mild Oral Sedative

An oral sedative can provide mild pain relief. The dentist will have you take a pill before your appointment. By the time you are in the dentist's chair, you will be relaxed. This oral sedative does not necessarily put you to sleep, but it does help you feel a bit more sleepy.

The goal of this kind of sedative is to ensure that you are still awake enough to speak with the dentist, but you will not necessarily be completely conscious. This method allows the dentist to perform a variety of procedures, including multiple root canals if necessary.

Laughing Gas

Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, is the next level of sedation. This method of sedation is quite simple, requiring that you wear a mask. You will breathe the gas in and out, feeling yourself calm down with each breath.

Laughing gas will make you giggly, but you will also feel a bit loopy. You'll calm down, and you will not necessarily be fully aware of what is happening. You will not feel much either. The good news is that once the mask is removed from your nose, the sedation will lift quickly.

Heavy IV Sedation

An IV sedation is heavier, allowing the dentist to perform a variety of procedures. You will fall asleep, which allows the dentist to work quickly and efficiently. You will be conscious just enough to respond to the dentist's questions and to open your mouth, for example. You will be "out of it" and not experience any pain.

Your dentist may recommend this heavier IV sedation in cases where you may have a lot of necessary work but are nervous about the pain that might be involved. Heavy IV sedation allows you to undergo the work without really being "present."

Sedation Dentistry Helps You Get Necessary Treatment

Are you interested in sedation dentistry? Now is a great time to talk to your doctor about the options available to you. You don't have to live with fear or pain. In fact, your dentistry work can be quite comfortable.


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