29 Mar Exploring Your Sedation Dentistry Options
If you experience anxiety or discomfort that keeps you from getting the dental care you need, it may be time to talk to your dentist about sedation dentistry. There are several levels of sedation that are appropriate for various procedures and patient preferences, so sedation dentistry is available to almost any patient struggling with dental anxiety. Below is a list of the options offered at the office of Dr. John Carson, DDS, for the comfort of our patients.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, will offer the lowest level of sedation, and it is safe for patients of all ages. The gas will be administered through a mask, allowing the patient to feel relaxed and very calm. Patients will be fully conscious while breathing nitrous oxide, and the effects will wear off almost immediately after the gas wears off. This option is perfect for individuals with mild dental anxiety who are looking for a more pleasant experience during cleanings and standard dental exams.
Oral Sedation
Procedures such as restorations and cosmetic procedures may require a slightly deeper state of relaxation through oral sedation. If this option is chosen, your dentist will give you a prescription for a moderate sedative such as Valium. You will need to take this medication before your appointment and have someone drive you to and from the dentist’s office. During your procedure with oral sedation, you will be awake and responsive, but you may not remember much of the actual procedure.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is reserved only for the most involved procedures or severe cases of dental anxiety. This type of sedation is administered through the bloodstream, and it will make you completely unconscious through the entire dental procedure. If you do have this type of sedation during your procedure, you will need to be driven home from the dentist’s office.
When you undergo any procedure at the office of John Carson, DDS, PC, our staff will strive to make the experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible. You can schedule cosmetic, restorative, or general dentistry services at our practice by calling (520) 514-7203 or by visiting us online.