While some people find visiting the dentist to be relaxing, there are others that deal with high anxiety when they are facing a potential dental appointment. Today, our Victoria dentists discuss how dental sedation is a safe and reliable way to have your dental visits completely in a stress-free manner.
What is dental sedation and how can it help?
Dental sedation employs medication, typically given orally or through an inhalent, to help patients feel more at ease before, during, and after dental treatment. Along with nervous patients, patients who need complex care or who have a strong gag reflex may also benefit from dental sedation.
Dental sedation allows our dentists to offer a lower-stress appointment so our patients can receive the critical oral health care they need to keep their mouths healthy.
What are the different options for dental sedation?
At InHarmony Dental Care we offer oral sedation and nitrous oxide.
Oral sedation is a sedative that is administered in the form of a liquid or pill. These medications can be taken the night before an appointment to help you sleep, and/or one hour before your appointment to reduce anxiety leading up to and during treatment.
Laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide, is an inhaled gas that can help reduce stress and anxiousness. Since every person is unique, the gas levels can be easily changed to suit your needs throughout your appointment.
During your treatment, you will remain awake and responsive, and you won't feel any pain.
Is dental sedation safe to use for routine visits?
Most patients can safely receive dental sedation. Your dentist will examine your medical history and discuss whether dental sedation is the best course of action for you before prescribing the sedative.
You will be closely watched throughout your visit to our office for any adverse effects of the sedation. After your appointment, it's normal to feel sleepy, but this state will pass as the day goes on.
It is important to set up a friend or family member to help with bringing you to and from your appointment as you should never drive after receiving dental sedation.