Everything You Need To Know About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable when undergoing dental treatments. 

Types of Sedation

There are three main types of sedation:

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is a mild form of sedation that's inhaled through a mask that fits over your nose to help you relax. Nitrous oxide is one of the safest forms of sedation, and patients are able to drive themselves home after the procedure.

• Oral conscious sedation (pill form)

Oral sedation involves taking a sedative pill prior to your appointment. The pill helps relax you and leaves you feeling groggy and relaxed. You will not be able to drive yourself home after your appointment, so you will need to have someone drive you to and from your appointment. Oral conscious sedation can help patients feel relaxed, but you'll remain awake and able to respond to questions during your procedure. Oral sedation is also sometimes referred to as "conscious sedation" because the sedation leaves you awake, but you won't be bothered by any sensations of discomfort.

Oral sedation is best suited for patients who experience mild to moderate anxiety. Patients with more complex dental needs (such as multiple procedures in one appointment) are better suited for other types of sedation.

• IV sedation

IV sedation is a deep form of sedation that is usually reserved for more complex dental procedures. IV sedation is administered through an IV that is inserted into your arm before the procedure. In rare cases, patients may become sedated enough to fall asleep during IV sedation.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

In most cases, sedation dentistry is safe. When you receive any type of sedation, it's important to make sure you're supervised by an experienced dentist. Sedation dentistry isn't right for everyone, so it's important to talk with your dentist about your medical history and medical history.

Is Sedation Dentistry Right For Me?

There are a number of people who can benefit from sedation dentistry. If you experience a high level of dental anxiety, sedation dentistry may be able to provide you with the relief you need. Sedation dentistry can also help patients who may have difficulty sitting open for long periods of time or may have sensitive teeth. Sedation dentistry can help alleviate these concerns by allowing patients to receive treatment while they are relaxed. It can also help patients with sensitive teeth or a bad gag reflex. 

For more information on our dental services, schedule an appointment with our dentist at Hallmark Dental Group or visit our dental office in St George at 335 East St George Blvd #201, Saint George, UT 84770.