The use of medication and sedatives to help patients relax during dental treatments is called sedation dentistry. Your dentist can discuss which level of sedation is right for you based on your medical history and treatment needs.

Who Performs Sedation Dentistry?

Your dentist is trained to administer different types of oral sedatives, including nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. These solutions are often used in conjunction to provide an extra layer of relaxation and help patients remain calm and relaxed during their visit.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Patients who suffer from anxiety or fear about going to the dentist may benefit from sedation dentistry. Other patients who benefit from sedation dentistry include those with sensitive teeth or gums, sensitive gag reflexes, and those who can't sit still for long. Talk to your dentist about your health history, and they will determine what's right for you.

When you get your dental treatment done under sedation, your dentist can work more efficiently and can perform multiple procedures in a single visit. And you won't feel any pain or discomfort at all!

Types of Sedation

• Oral conscious sedation

In oral conscious sedation, your provider will prescribe you a pill to take about an hour before your appointment. This pill will make you feel completely relaxed and at ease for your procedure. The pill will make you so relaxed that you will probably not even remember your time in the dentist's chair. You will be able to respond to simple commands from your dentist during the procedure, but you may not remember any of them! This type of sedation is very safe; however, you may still experience some side effects like headaches and nausea. Some people even feel groggy when they wake up from a sleeping pill. Any of these symptoms are very temporary and are not dangerous.

• Nitrous oxide

The most common type of dental sedation is nitrous oxide or laughing gas. It is inhaled through a small mask that fits comfortably over your nose to help you relax during your treatment. It can help you feel calm, relaxed, and at ease while you undergo your procedure. While you are under the effects of nitrous oxide, you will still be able to hear and respond to your dentist's directions during treatment. Once the procedure is over, the mask will be removed, and you will start to feel normal again within a few minutes. You will be able to drive yourself home after your appointment.

• IV sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation is a popular type of dental sedation that is administered directly into a patient's bloodstream in order to take effect quickly. This sedative often works within a matter of minutes, allowing patients to feel incredibly relaxed and comfortable during dental treatments. This type of sedation is an ideal choice for those who are extremely nervous or anxious about their treatment appointment. It is also common for patients who suffer from a severe gag reflex and have trouble remaining still for long periods of time. 

To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (954) 368-6264 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 10187 Cleary Blvd STE 103, Plantation, FL 33324.