If you’ve ever avoided dental appointments because they make you nervous, you’re not alone. Many people experience so much anxiety that they have a hard time sitting still long enough to get through their procedure or are scared that it will hurt and so they procrastinate scheduling it. Thankfully, your dentist can offer sedatives to help you feel relaxed so that you can receive the oral care you need.
Although they are frequently used to help patients feel at ease, that’s not the only benefit they provide. Continue reading to learn about 3 additional reasons why you might want to consider sedation dentistry!
Reason #1: There Are Multiple Options
Everyone responds to medications differently which means not everyone’s a good fit for every type of sedation. You have an allergy to some ingredients, a resistance to certain analgesics, or are concerned about how long the effects will last after it’s administered. Fortunately, there are multiple types available so your dentist can use one that’s appropriate for your circumstances. Some popular options include:
- Nitrous oxide. Also known as laughing gas, this safe and effective sedative is inhaled through a mask that’s placed over your nose while your dentist works. It creates a relaxed and euphoric sensation so that you feel comfortable. Plus, it wears off within minutes after you stop breathing it in.
- Oral conscious sedation. This is a pill that’s prescribed in advance of your appointment. Your provider will give you instructions to take it before you arrive so that it’ll kick in by the time you’re in the dentist’s chair. The effects can linger for a little while afterward, so you’ll need someone to drive you home following your visit.
Reason #2: It Doesn’t Put You to Sleep
If you’ve hesitated to undergo a specific procedure because you’re worried that the provided sedative will “knock you out”, you can set your concerns aside. Thankfully, your dentist uses drugs that keep you calm without putting you to sleep. You’ll feel completely at ease but conscious enough to respond to questions and instructions. That said, you may not remember much of your experience after the fact.
Reason #3: It’s Considered Safe
Anyone administering these medications must undergo specific training to be authorized. That means if your dentist is offering it, you know that they have plenty of education and experience to know how to do so safely. Furthermore, the drugs themselves are safe for people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds but with a few exceptions. They might put you at risk if you have other conditions like you’re pregnant or nursing, have heart, liver, or lung problems, or suffer from sleep apnea.
Now that you know more about sedation dentistry, you can trust that you’ll be safe and sound throughout your next dental procedure.
About the Author
Dr. Lauri Barge is committed to providing a wide array of high-quality treatments to meet all your dental needs under one roof. She graduated with her undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Arlington before pursuing her dental doctorate at Texas A&M College of Dentistry. Whether you require a routine checkup or more complicated treatments, she can help. She prioritizes patient comfort by combining a personalized approach with advanced dental technology. Plus, she offers multiple forms of sedation if you’re overly anxious or have an invasive procedure scheduled. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 539-3800.