You may know that sedation treatments like nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation can be excellent ways for people with fear or anxiety about seeing their dentist to comfortably receive effective oral healthcare. However, you may not be aware of how these treatments can help dental patients who deal with other issues as well. Here’s a brief guide to how sedation can make oral care easier for those without dental phobias.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to the use of sedatives to help a patient sit still and remain calm and comfortable during a dental appointment. A few safe and popular methods include:
Nitrous oxide
Also called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide has been used for almost two centuries to help patients receive dental care comfortably. This colorless and odorless gas is administered to the nose through a hose to quickly induce a sense of calmness and wellbeing while reducing sensitivity to pain, and it will be eliminated from the body within minutes after the treatment ends. Nitrous oxide involves no long-lasting side effects or recovery period, so you can expect to be able to drive yourself home after treatment.
Oral conscious sedation
This treatment involves your dentist prescribing a sedative pill to be taken briefly before your appointment. This will raise your pain threshold and induce a sense of calm while leaving you able to answer questions and respond to instructions. You may not be able to remember the details of your appointment afterward, and you will need a trusted individual to drive you to and from your dentist’s office since you will need several hours to recover after being sedated.
How Can Sedation Dentistry Help Those without Dental Anxiety?
Sedation dentistry can be a great way to make oral healthcare easier for people with:
- Health conditions that make it difficult for them to sit still such as cerebral palsy.
- Sensitive gag reflexes that make it difficult for dentists to operate within the mouth.
- Dental needs that require especially long procedures.
Sedation dentistry can be an excellent way to make oral healthcare a comfortable and pleasant experience. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if you can be an excellent sedation candidate.
About the Practice
Ponderosa Dental Group offers the finest oral health services in Missoula. Led by Dr. Dan McFarland, the staff ensures that each patient receives effective care with genuine compassion in a warm and welcoming office. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental sedation. To learn more about how sedation dentistry may be able to help you, contact the practice online or dial (406) 542-0030.
