How to Decide if Sedation is Right for You

Sometimes, visiting the dentist can be uncomfortable, and at times, your dentist may have to perform tasks that are painful. But, there are plenty of options to ease anxiety in the dentist’s chair. Sedation may be the right option for you if you are concerned about your next visit to the dentist.

Conscious Sedation

Conscious sedation is a great option for those who are looking for help easing anxiety at the dentist. It is a calming type of sedation that allows you to relax. Sedation will help you be at ease during dental procedures. Although it is called conscious sedation, you may fall asleep with conscious sedation, but other times you will just be drowsy and have very little memory of your procedure.

There are a few different types of conscious sedation such as inhalation sedation, oral sedation, and IV sedation.

Inhalation Sedation

The most commonly known type of sedation is the inhalation sedation that involves what people normally refer to as laughing gas. This means that you breathe in Nitrous Oxide and it will decrease your pain shortly after. It wears off quickly, and there aren’t any side effects.

Oral Sedation

With oral sedation, you take a tablet or pill an hour before your appointment. Unlike inhalation sedation, it may last up to six hours. You also will need a friend or family member to help you get home after your appointment. It will also ease your pain and make you drowsy, but the effects last longer than inhalation sedation.

IV Sedation

The last type of sedation that may be offered to you at your dentist is IV sedation. IV sedation means that your dentist will inject a sedative into your veins. It will also make you feel drowsy and relaxed. Like the other sedation options, you may have a decreased memory of what happens during your appointment. IV sedation is said to be more controlled than oral or inhalation sedation, but it may not be an option for some patients due to previous health concerns.

Your Comfort is Our Priority

At Mission Bend, your comfort is our priority, whether you choose to use dental sedation or not. We offer all the best sedation options and will provide you with all the information you may need to make the right decision for you. Ask us about sedation at your next checkup, or book a checkup online today to make sure your teeth are doing well!

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