Many people have a fear of going to the dentist and getting work done, which is why professionals offer sedation to help. If you have a low pain threshold, a weak gag reflex, severe anxiety about dental work, or special circumstances and needs, sedation is a great option. It's used to help relieve fear and tension and makes most procedures relatively easy. Here's a closer look at the most common types you can ask about before your appointment.

Which Dental Sedative Options Are Available?

1. IV Sedation

This type of sedation uses an intravenous solution to provide a deep, tranquilizing experience. The solution is injected into a vein by a needle, and the results are almost immediate. The patient can be awake during the procedure but will not be fully aware of their surroundings or feel any discomfort. 

An IV injection can also put a person to sleep, so they will be unconscious during the appointment. After the dental work is finished, they might need a period of time to recover from the effects of the sedative, and an adult driver will be necessary to take them home.

2. Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen

More commonly known as "laughing gas," this is a fairly common sedative used by dentists for a variety of procedures. Nitrous oxide is used to relax patients and curb anxiety during doctor's appointments. It's combined with a dose of oxygen and inhaled through a mask that sits over the nose. 

Depending on the person, the dentist will adjust the dosage to give the correct amount. It dulls sensitivity in the mouth and relaxes the recipient at the same time. Laughing gas is known to be fairly mild, and most patients can drive home after it wears off and the procedure is finished.

3. Oral Sedation

A dentist can also inject a sedative orally, using a pill that contains a certain type of benzodiazepine that reduces anxiety. This will usually make patients drowsy before the procedure takes place and is taken an hour beforehand. It can also be delivered through an injection, but it involves conscious sedation, so the patient remains awake during the procedure. However, awareness of what is happening will be reduced, and the memory of the dental work is often limited afterward.

If you need dental work done, turn to the professionals at Athens Family Dental. For more than 25 years, they have served patients in the Athens-Clarke County, GA area, providing a variety of dentistry services and education. From first appointments to cosmetic needs and implants, they use top-of-the-line tools and technology in a welcoming environment. To make an appointment for your dental needs, call (706) 548-3279. Visit their website for important patient information.