4 Options For Sedation Dentistry Your Dental Centre May Suggest

Being in a dentist's chair can be a stressful experience, but sedation dentistry offers a way to reduce your anxiety and enjoy the process. Sedation dentistry uses various methods to induce sleep or calmness during treatment.

Your dental centre may suggest one of the following four options:

1. Nitrous Oxide Gas

Nitrous oxide gas, or laughing gas, is one of the most popular forms of conscious sedation offered by dental centres today. It's very safe and provides almost instant results when inhaled through a small tube placed between your lips. You will feel relaxed and comfortable almost immediately after inhaling the nitrous oxide gas but it does not put you to sleep completely so you will still be able to respond if needed during your treatment session.

2. Oral Medication

Oral medication includes tablets or liquid medicines that are given to help relax you before your dental procedure begins. The effects can last for a few hours, so this type of sedation is often used when there are multiple procedures involved such as fillings and crowns or large extractions performed at the same time. There are many different types of oral medications available for use during your visit to your dental centre, including antihistamines, anti-anxiety medications and muscle relaxants. 

3. Intravenous Conscious Sedation (IV)

IV conscious sedation allows you to remain awake throughout most of your appointment. You may even be able to hold conversations with your dentist during the procedure. However, you will still be given medication to relax you and make you feel comfortable while the work is being done. An IV (Intravenous) line will be placed in a vein on one arm or hand and fluids will be given through it into your bloodstream until you are ready for surgery or other procedures that require additional sedation. 

4. General Anaesthesia

General anaesthesia is more intense than any other form of sedation and results in a deep sleep, so you will not be able to feel anything during your dental treatment. It is usually used for more extensive treatments and procedures, such as removing wisdom teeth or oral surgery. The anesthetist will give you medication through an IV line (intravenous) in your arm or hand which will slowly send you into a deep sleep. You will not be able to feel anything and may have no memory of the treatment.

If you suffer from dental anxiety, there are several options available that can help ease your fears and make your next visit to the dentist a much better experience. Chat with a local dental centre to find out more.


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