Do you dread the dentist’s chair? Put off making an appointment because of your fear? You’re not alone, 36% of people in the United States suffer from Dentophobia – a debilitating fear of dentists. This fear can have significant consequences, leading to avoidance of dental care and worsening oral health. However, there is hope. Sedation dentistry offers a solution to the fear of visiting the dentist, providing a relaxed and comfortable experience for even the most anxious patients. 

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedative medications to help patients relax and remain calm during dental procedures. By inducing a calm/stress-free feeling, patients are alleviated from any discomfort, making the appointment easier to manage for both the doctor and the patient. Sedation dentistry can be used to reduce fear even for complex dental procedures. Read further, as we delve into the several types of sedation dentistry to understand which solution is best for each patient’s need.

Oral Conscious Sedation 

Has anyone ever told you to take a chill pill? Well, oral conscious sedation is just that. It involves the administration of medication in pill or liquid form before a dental procedure to provoke a drowsy and relaxed state. However, you do not fall asleep, instead, you are still conscious and responsive without feeling pain or anxiety. Usually, oral sedation medication is prescribed before the appointment.

Nitrous Oxide

You probably know Nitrous Oxide by its more common name of “laughing gas”. It is an odorless and colorless gas that is administered through a mask that fits right over your nose. In about 5 minutes you will feel its effects, making you so relaxed you might even let out a giggle. Throughout the procedure,
the dentist can control the amount of sedation medication and adjust the dose accurately to your needs. One of the key benefits of this method is the quick recovery time! Once the procedure is over, the doctor pumps a big dose of oxygen to flush it out of your system very quickly. Most are surprised to
realize they can drive home right after.

IV Sedation

The deepest form of conscious sedation that can be administered in a dental office is IV (intravenous) sedation. It is dispensed into the bloodstream through an IV line and creates a state of deep relaxation and diminished awareness, which often causes a semi-conscious or unconscious state. The doctor is able
to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels during the procedure and adjust the dosage throughout. This is best for people who suffer from severe dental anxiety or those undergoing time-sensitive procedures. Most people do fall asleep when the intravenous medication is distributed
and wake up with little to no memory of it.

At Dental Solutions of Binghamton, we put our patients’ health and happiness first by offering all these solutions for their dental fear. We recognize that going to the dentist can occasionally be unsettling, we offer sedation dentistry options that minimize stress and discomfort. Don’t be afraid of bringing up the topic with one of our team members on your next visit if you believe you could benefit from a sedation dentistry option during an upcoming dental procedure. No matter how complex your dental needs seem, our experienced team of prosthodontists are here to help. Make an appointment with us and let us help you in achieving a healthier, brighter smile.