It’s probably safe to assume that undergoing dental procedures isn’t on anyone’s list of favorite pastimes. For some patients, however, dental anxiety and phobia can be so extreme that they won’t step into a dental office even for their basic cleanings, resulting in poor oral health. Sedation dentistry offers a safe way to help even the most anxious patients relax in the dentist’s chair.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Sedation?
If you’re fearful of setting foot in a dentist’s office, you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry. We may also recommend sedation for the following:
- Patients with past traumatic experiences at the dentist’s office
- Patients with a strong gag reflex
- Patients with highly sensitive teeth
- Patients who don’t respond well to local anesthesia
- Patients requiring lengthy and complex treatments
- Young patients who can’t sit still for long
- Patients with special behavioral, physical, medical, or cognitive needs
What Are the Forms of Sedation?
At Simon Family Dental, we offer nitrous oxide sedation and oral sedation, two safe and highly effective options to help reduce anxiety during treatment. Regardless of the type of sedation you receive, we’ll also numb the area with a local anesthetic.
Nitrous Oxide Conscious Sedation: Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, involves breathing a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a mask. You may have a slight tingling sensation and may feel a little numb and lightheaded.
Laughing gas induces a state of relaxation and euphoria and minimizes any sensation of discomfort. However, you won’t fall asleep during treatment, and you’ll be able to interact with Dr. Simon. As soon as your dental treatment is over and we remove the mask, the effects of this mild sedation will wear off immediately, allowing you to drive yourself home.
Oral Sedation: Oral conscious sedation involves taking an oral medication before your dental procedure to help create a relaxed state. The level of sedation will depend on the dose of the sedative given. You’ll feel relaxed and sleepy but remain conscious and responsive to directions.
Oral sedation has amnesic properties, so most of our patients have little, if any, recollection of their treatment. It will take some time for the medication’s effects to wear off, so make sure you bring someone along to take you home after the procedure.
Sedation Dentistry Near Me in Tyler, TX
If you want to learn more about our sedation dentistry options, visit Simon Family Dental today. Dr. Simon and his team are committed to providing our valued patients with outstanding, gentle care. We invite you to call our office at 903-213-9799 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!