The prospect of visiting the dentist for treatment can be daunting to some people. It’s normal to experience some anxiety even if you’ve been to the office many times in the past. Some patients may benefit from sedation dentistry, a process that can help you feel more comfortable during the dental care procedure. Here’s what you should know about this option.

A Guide to Sedation Dentistry

What exactly is sedation dentistry?

It involves treating a patient under moderate sedation. The person then feels calm and relaxed enough to undergo the treatment without being put completely under. It’s sometimes referred to as twilight sleep, because patients remain lightly awake, yet are generally unaware of what’s going on.

Who benefits from sedation dentistry?

Some people put off visiting the dentist out of pure fear and anxiety. These patients are ideal candidates for sedation dentistry, as are those who are afraid of pain and needles, experience claustrophobia while in the chair, cannot control their movements easily, or do not respond well to local anesthesia. Even children can be sedated if their parents wish.

What sedation options are available?

The dental care provider will take into account everything from anxiety severity to health history to determine the most suitable type of sedation to use. One of the most common is nitrous oxide, more commonly referred to as laughing gas. It’s inhaled through a mask, producing results in just a few minutes. Another option is to take a medication, known as oral conscious sedation. This can cause a person to fall into a light sleep. The strongest option is intravenous sedation, where a sedative is injected into the bloodstream. It’s best suited for those with little tolerance for dental treatments who would prefer to be completely asleep.

What is the recovery process like?

Patients who use nitrous oxide are typically safe to drive home on their own. However, those who receive oral or intravenous sedation must be driven home by someone else. Patients shouldn’t drive for at least 24 hours after the sedation wears off. It’s best to rest at home for a while and, ideally, to have someone nearby who can be of assistance as needed.

If you’re interested in learning more about sedation dentistry options in Fishersville, VA, turn to Drs. Bradford and Catchings Family Dentistry. Proudly serving patients throughout the Shenandoah Valley since 1991, these professionals offer a range of services to ensure the health of your teeth and gums. Rely on them for dental care treatments ranging from extraction to braces. Visit the website for more information, or call (540) 213-1966 to schedule an appointment.