Dental sedation, sometimes referred to as sleep dentistry, is a technique used by dentists to help patients relax and remain calm during all types of dental procedures. There are several types of sedation methods including oral sedatives and nitrous oxide that help make patients feel more comfortable during treatments. Patients who suffer from fear of the dentist or dental anxiety will benefit from using sedation methods to receive the dental care they need but are too afraid to get. However, there are many other benefits to using sedation dentistry in Allen, TX during your dentist appointments at Allen Dental Center.
Who is Sedation Dentistry For?
Sedation dentistry benefits those who suffer from dental anxiety. However, patients choose to use it for other reasons as well. There are actually many reasons our patients choose to use sedation dentistry in Allen, TX. It is appropriate for patients with:
- Dental anxiety or phobias
- A low pain threshold
- A strong gag reflex
- Difficulty sitting still for extended periods of time
- The need for lengthy or complicated dental procedures
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Allen Dental Center offers two types of dental sedation methods. Before your dentist appointment, it is important to discuss your concerns with your dentist. Then they can review your medical history to determine if you qualify for any sedation methods. Your dentist will choose between one of the two follow types of sedation dentistry.
Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry
Oral conscious sedation is an effective way to help patients relax during dental procedures. You will take a sedative before your appointment which will range from mild to moderate. You will still be conscious and able to move and speak. However, you will be in a deep state of relaxation and will feel drowsy. Most people have little to no memory after their dental procedure. With this type of dental sedation, you will need a ride to and from your dentist appointment.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a type of dental sedation where you breathe in gas through mask that sits on your nose. Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that will help you relax and feel more comfortable during your dental treatment. You will remain awake and responsive during the whole appointment. The benefit of using nitrous oxide is the rapid onset of the effects. Also, once the mask is removed, the effects stop right away. Laughing gas has been used for many years in the dental field to help adults and child receive the dental treatments they need to remain healthy.
What is Sleep Dentistry Like for the Patient?
Each patient’s sedation dentistry experience will vary. It will depend on the type of sedation they choose to use and their response to the medication. In general, almost all patients will feel relaxed and calm during the procedure. Some feel drowsy to the point they falls asleep however it is not medication that is making them fall asleep.
During the treatment, our dental staff will monitor your vital signs to make sure you are safe at all times. We will be able to communicate with you and ask you questions to make sure you are okay. After your appointment, you will need time to recover from the sedative effects. You will feel groggy and may need to rest for a few hours. Most patients will remember very little, if anything at all, from their dental appointment.
Learn More about Sedation Dentistry in Allen, TX
Before your dentist appointment, you will need to discuss your sedation options with your dentist. Allen Dental Center is happy to help each patient. Contact us at (972) 727-3941to learn more about your sedation dentistry options in Allen, TX.