At Mission Bend Family Dentistry, we recognize that dental visits can be a source of stress for some who suffer from dental anxiety. We want each of our valued patients to get the quality dental care they deserve, in a relaxed and welcoming environment. That is why we offer sedation dentistry.
Dental Sedation allows you to remain relaxed during a treatment visit without experiencing any discomfort or anxiety. Sedation benefits your dentist as well because it will alleviate the potential for twitching in response to the work being done. You will hardly know what is going on and can relax through your session in comfort, and your dentist can work without distraction.
Types of Dental Sedation
There are several methods available for sedating patients who can use some additional help relaxing during their dental care treatments at Mission Bend Family Dentistry. Depending on your level of anxiety and your personal preferences, we will provide you with the right method of dental sedation for you.
- Conscious Sedation – For patients who need just a little bit of help getting comfortable with their treatment, and want to be aware of what is happening without any discomfort. Conscious Sedation allows you to communicate with your dentist and remain alert yet relaxed throughout your visit.
- Nitrous Oxide – This form of conscious sedation, often referred to as laughing gas, relieves fear and anxiety in patients of all ages. It can be safely used to help children relax and enjoy their dental treatments. Nitrous oxide reduces agitation and anxiety which, in addition to relaxing your child, will aid your dentist in providing the care they need.
- Oral Sedation – For additional help relaxing, we also offer the option of oral sedation. This method of dental sedation uses a pill sedative that causes drowsiness but allows the patient to remain awake, in a semi-sleepy state. You will be vaguely aware of what is happening, but oblivious to any discomfort.
- IV Sedation – The sedative is administered intravenously prior to your treatment session. It works more quickly than other forms of sedation and can be readily adjusted for the proper amount of sedative to suit the patient.
- Deep Sedation/General Anesthesia – This method provides maximum sedation for patients who suffer from high dental anxiety. Deep sedation permits you to remain unconscious throughout your treatment.
In addition to dental sedation, your dentist will also use a local anesthetic to numb the area to be treated and ensure there is no discomfort while your dental work is being done.
Dental sedation is recommended for patients who suffer from dental anxiety, a bad gag reflex, have difficulty remaining still, or have needed extensive dental work.
Sedation dentistry offers an opportunity for patients to receive the dental care they need who would otherwise avoid treatment out of fear. At Mission Bend, we believe everyone deserves a great smile and quality dental care. That is why we offer dental sedation to our valued patients.
Ask your dentist about sedation dentistry and find out what is best for you to get started on your dental care plan.