What is Sedation Dentistry?

Put simply, sedation dentistry is the use of sedation medications during dental treatments and procedures. Sedation is endorsed by the American Dental Association, and is an effective way to make you more comfortable throughout your visit. Whether you have a low pain tolerance, a dental phobia, you’re undergoing a major dental treatment, or other physical concerns with treatments – sedation dentistry may be right for you. Our compassionate and professional team will walk you through the process step-by-step as well as go over the pre and post-sedation instructions to ensure your comfort level and instill a sense of ease around the procedure.

When Can Sedation be Used?

Applicable procedures can include:

• Fillings
• Crowns
• Bridges
• Root Canals
• Extractions
• Cosmetic Procedures
• Periodontal Treatments

In certain cases, patients that require larger treatments can use sedation to complete them in a fewer amount of visits to our office. Keep in mind, before using a sedative or anesthetic, it is important to tell your dentist about any medications or medical treatments you are receiving.

Types of Sedation

At Linden Oaks Dental, our highly-trained sedation dentists have a variety of protocols and types of sedatives available which can be customized to your unique physiological and pharmacological needs.Your dentist will discuss all of the various options to decide what’s best for you.  

IV Sedation

With IV Sedation, the medication is administered intravenously. This allows the dentist optimal control of the medication administered and to readily increase or decrease your level of sedation as needed. Although you may lie back comfortably with your eyes closed, you will not be asleep during your appointment and will still be able to respond to verbal cues from your dentist. Because you are completely relaxed, your dentist can accomplish more high-quality dentistry in less time. IV sedation includes faster onset of the sedation medications, meaning you’ll be able to feel the effects of the medication quickly.

Nitrous Oxide or “Laughing Gas”

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas as it is more commonly known, is often used as a conscious sedative during a dental visit. The gas is administered with a mixture of oxygen and has a calming effect that helps those who may feel anxious or unnerved relax during their dental treatment. Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative, so patients are still conscious and can talk to their dentist during their visit. After treatment, the nitrous is turned off and oxygen is administered for five to 10 minutes to help flush any remaining gas. After which, the effects wear off almost immediately.

Oral Sedation

If you have a unique medical condition and IV sedation or Nitrous Oxide aren’t the best fit for your needs, you still have options. We want everyone to feel comfortable during their treatments as well as with the process of sedation. As such, we also offer sedatives which can be taken orally.

Steps to Sedation

• Step One: Schedule your first appointment
• Step Two: At your Welcoming Visit, your Dentist will go over all of the options to choose what is right for you
• Step Three: The night before treatment prepare yourself for your anxiety free visit
• Step Four: The treatment
• Step Five: Going home with your new smile!

We know a visit to the dentist can be a challenge for some and our caring team is here to make sure you never have to feel anxious or uneasy about dental treatments again. To learn more about our sedation dentistry or to schedule your consultation appointment, contact us today! We can’t wait to help make your smile even brighter.