Dental sedation is a great option for patients who experience anxiety during dental procedures. It can also be used for patients who have a difficult time staying still, have a strong gag reflex, or need a lengthy procedure. There are different types of dental sedation, and the type used will be based on the patient’s needs.
To learn more about dental sedation, read below or contact our Cromwell, CT office if you have any questions!
The Different Types of Dental Sedation
There are different types of dental sedation, each with its own advantages, side effects, and abilities. The type of sedation you choose should be based on both the procedure you’re having done and your own preferences.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide sedation is a popular choice for many patients, as it is effective, safe, and does not inhibit the ability to drive post-procedure.
Nitrous oxide is administered as a breathable gas that is inhaled through a mask over the nose. With this form of sedation, you will remain awake and able to communicate with your dentist. You will likely feel relaxed and even lightheaded while under its influence. This type of sedation is typically used for less invasive procedures, such as fillings or cleanings. If you would like to request nitrous oxide for your next visit, call our office today!
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is a popular choice for dental procedures because it is relatively easy to administer and produces more intense effects than nitrous oxide. The medication is taken in pill form and works to relax patients and make them drowsy. This type of sedation is ideal for patients who have mild to moderate anxiety about dental procedures.
While this form of sedation may be ideal for more invasive procedures, its effects are known to linger for several hours following the procedure. For this reason, the patient will need a friend or family member to drive them home following the visit.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is administered through a small IV in your arm. Delivered directly into the bloodstream, this form of sedative produces rapid and powerful sedative effects. Due to these intense effects, patients will be instructed to relax for the remainder of the day after their appointment. They will also need a friend or family member to drive them home.
IV sedation causes patients to feel drowsy and amnesic—so much so that they often will not remember the procedure once it has concluded. This form of sedation is the most effective for combating severe dental anxiety.
If you have a fear of needles, this form of sedation may not be the best choice for you, as the IV will need to be inserted prior to the procedure. However, once the IV is in place, you will quickly begin to feel relieved.
What to Consider When Choosing a Dental Sedation Method
There are a few things to consider when choosing a dental sedation method.
- The first is the level of sedation you need. If you have a high level of anxiety, you may need stronger sedation.
- The second is how long the procedure will take. If it is a longer procedure, you may need longer-acting, or more controlled, sedation.
- The third is your medical history. If you have any medical conditions that could be affected by sedation, be sure to discuss this with our team prior to your appointment.
Your Comfort, Our Priority
When you choose our team for your dental visit, you will be under the care of compassionate, gentle providers that want you to have a pleasant dental visit. If you need dental sedation to ensure a positive experience, we are more than happy to provide that for you. Call today to learn more!
