Sedation Dentistry

Does the very thought of the dentist make you nervous? Have you been skipping out on those routine checkups or avoiding getting the dental care you need due to dental anxiety or even a phobia? This problem is more common than you might think and the dental team at Morgan Family Dental can help you beat the fear with the help of sedation dentistry.

About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is used to alleviate anxiety and help you feel more relaxed during your dental visit so that you can undergo the treatment or treatments you need. There are several forms of sedation dentistry from which to choose including,

• Concious Oral sedation
• Nitrous oxide

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation comes in the form of a prescription anti-anxiety medication that you will take about one hour prior to dental work. While you will be awake you will feel relaxed and maybe even a bit sleepy. The effects of oral sedation can last for hours after the procedure so you’ll want to have someone with you that can drive you home.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide (also known as “laughing gas”) is an inhaled sedation that is administered through the nose and mouth through a mask. Nitrous oxide reduces anxiety but unlike oral sedation, the effects wear off immediately so you won’t need to have someone come with you to your appointment.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is administered through a vein and is often used for more extensive dental procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction because it offers a deeper level of sedation. While you will still be awake you won’t be as aware during the procedure. You may not even remember the procedure at all. As with oral sedation, you will need someone to drive you home if you undergo IV sedation.

Candidates for Sedation Dentistry

Most healthy individuals dealing with certain mental or physical problems could benefit from getting sedation dentistry for their next procedure. Sedation is extremely safe when administered by a dental professional. Before getting sedation dentistry our dentists will go through your medical history and get clearance from your doctor if you have certain conditions such as respiratory disease or high blood pressure that could be affected by sedation.

Sedation dentistry may be right for you if you have dental anxiety or fears that keep you from getting regular dental care and treatment. It can also help those with special needs or physical disabilities feel more comfortable and relaxed in the dental chair.