Dentophobia; this term refers to those of us who often feel extremely worried and stressed when the time comes to have dental work done. If this applies to you, that’s okay! Feeling apprehensive when you visit the dentist is more common than you think.
Oral health specialists understand this, and thanks to contemporary methods, they can deliver the necessary treatments through sedation dentistry.
Looking for more information about sedation dentistry? Speak to a dentist in NW Calgary today.
Sedation Dentistry Explained
The complete definition of sedation dentistry is a branch of dental care that focuses on helping patients relax. Besides high anxiety, such measures can be taken for several reasons, which are listed below:
- You have an overactive gag reflex.
- Trouble sitting still in the dentist’s chair.
- Extremely sensitive teeth.
- You’re claustrophobic.
- A patient has special needs.
- The treatment you’re receiving is complicated and long.
Do you need to decide whether you should undergo sedation dentistry? Schedule a consultation with a dentist near you. They will be able to tell you if you’re an ideal candidate for this particular treatment.
Forms of Sedation Dentistry
If you are given the green light to go ahead and receive dental sedation, the next step is to decide which type of sedation is best for you. Four forms of sedation are available, and they are described in further detail below.
1. Nitrous oxide sedation.
The colloquial term for nitrous oxide is laughing gas. It is a sweet-smelling, colourless gas administered through a mask covering your mouth and nose, allowing you to breathe it in. Despite the name, it does not make you laugh uncontrollably. Instead, it helps you relax while your teeth and gums are repaired. It doesn’t put you to sleep, so you can talk to your dentist if needed. You won’t feel any pain whatsoever, either.
The effects wear off quickly, so you can assume your daily routine in no time. To learn more about NW Calgary nitrous oxide sedation, visit our local dental clinic.
2. Oral sedation.
The method involves taking medication about an hour or so before your appointment. Though it’s typically administered in pill form, sometimes it can come as a liquid you can swallow too.
Unlike nitrous oxide, oral medication makes patients dizzy, and some fall asleep. The effects last longer than nitrous oxide, so having a friend or family member take you to and from the dental clinic is a good idea.
3. Intravenous sedation.
Shortened to IV sedation, you receive the sedation through a brief injection. The medication enters your bloodstream, meaning that it works very quickly. You’ll most likely fall asleep. Your heart rate, oxygen, and blood levels are monitored during your appointment. IV sedation is recommended for those of us who suffer from high anxiety.
4. General anesthesia.
Most people are familiar with this because it’s what’s provided to patients at the hospital when they undergo surgery. You’ll be unconscious throughout the appointment and won’t remember much afterward.
Dentists must complete additional training to administer general sedation. However, an anesthesiologist may be brought in to do it.
The complexity of the treatment, your personal preferences, and what your dentist deems necessary determine what type of sedation is best for you.
Sedation dental methods are safe for patients of all ages. It’s given to you in a safe, highly controlled setting. Here at Valley Ridge Dental Centre, we take your needs seriously and will do our utmost to ensure you’re well taken care of the entire time. Our friendly, helpful, capable team is ready and willing to work with you and your family. So, if you want to receive oxide sedation near you, call, stop by our clinic, or visit our website to book an appointment today!