Do you get nervous at the idea of going to the dentist? This is much more common than you may think. In fact, over 30 million Americans experience stress related to the dentist. The good news is that this doesn’t mean that you need to avoid dental care forever. There are several sedation options available to help even the most fearful patients get the care they need without added stress. Here are the different sedation options to choose from.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
This sedation method uses a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen to help patients feel more relaxed. More commonly known by the name “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide sedation is safe and effective for relaxing patients. It can even be used to help kids feel more relaxed when they require dental work. If you opt for this method, your dental team will give you a mask to wear over the duration of your treatment. You will inhale the mixture of gas through the mask. It doesn’t have a taste or odor, and you will remain conscious throughout the procedure. The best part is that the effects wear off quickly, so you can return back to your normal schedule right away. You can even drive yourself too and from your procedure.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation helps to reduce anxiety in the form of pills. If you choose this method, your dentist will prescribe you a small pill to take about an hour before your procedure. By the time your appointment begins, you will feel perfectly relaxed. Just like with nitrous oxide sedation, you will remain conscious throughout the duration of your procedure, so you will still be able to answer questions and follow the instructions of the dental team. However, many patients don’t remember much of their treatment afterward. The effects of oral conscious sedation can linger for several hours, so you need to arrange for a trusted friend to drive you to and from your appointment.
Which Sedation Method Is Best?
Dentists usually recommend sedation options for patients based on several factors, like their anxiety levels, pain tolerance, and tooth sensitivities. Sedation is also a great option for those who are undergoing long and complex procedures, those with sensitive gag reflexes, and those who struggle to sit still in the treatment chair. If you have mild to moderate dental anxiety, nitrous oxide sedation may be an ideal way to reduce your nerves. However, if you have moderate to severe anxiety, oral conscious sedation may be a more effective option.
If you struggle with dental anxiety, you don’t need to let it influence your oral health. By discussing your concerns with your dental team and going over your sedation options, you can find the solution to best meet your unique needs.
About the Author
Dr. Maryam Bemani earned her dental doctorate from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. Since then, she has been committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. To learn more about dental sedation or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (443) 251-5580.