You’ve made excuses for years – not being able to fit it into your schedule, wanting to save money – but the truth is that it’s your own anxiety that’s stopped you from having regular dental appointments. You know that sooner or later it’s going to catch up with you, but how can you conquer your fears so that your teeth get the care they need? Fortunately, your dentist in Lawrenceville has plenty of ways to help you stay calm during your treatment.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a term for any procedure that keeps the patient in a relaxed state during their treatment. It’s sometimes called “sleep dentistry”, but don’t let the name fool you; some forms of sedation will keep you conscious enough to follow simple instructions and even answer questions.
In addition to helping with dental anxieties, sedation dentistry is often used for patients who have:
- Low pain thresholds
- An inability to sit still for long periods of time
- Sensitive teeth
- A powerful gag reflex
- A need for large amounts of dental work
Depending on the level of relaxation needed, different forms of sedation can be used, such as nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation.
Nitrous Oxide
Famously called “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide is combined with oxygen and delivered through a mask on your nose. The gas will keep you calm throughout the procedure, and the amount used can be adjusted as needed. The effects will wear off quickly after your appointment, so you’ll be able to drive home by yourself; this makes nitrous oxide the sedation method of choice if you have a busy schedule.
Nitrous oxide can be administered by almost any dentist. It’s often used for children who are frightened or uncooperative during their visits. The process is completely safe; the dentist will only use a dose that’s appropriate based on the patient’s weight.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Sometimes sedation dentistry in Lawrenceville comes in the form of the pill. This is known as oral conscious sedation, and it’s done about an hour before your actual procedure. As the name implies, you’ll still be conscious, but you’ll likely feel very drowsy depending on the dose; some patients might actually fall asleep, but they can be awakened with a gentle shake. Unlike nitrous oxide, the effects of oral conscious sedation take a long time to wear off, so you’ll need someone else to drive you from your appointment.
Different practices will offer different levels of sedation dentistry in Lawrenceville; it depends on what the dentist is licensed to perform. You can check their websites or ask during a consultation to learn what procedures are available. The key is to be proactive in finding an office that you feel comfortable visiting; the sooner you do, the easier it will be to protect your smile from tooth decay!
About the Author
Dr. Bruce E. Carter is a well-known cosmetic and restorative dentist who has been practicing for over 30 years. He makes it a point to form trusting relationships with the families that visit his office; that’s why he offers nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation to help his patients feel as comfortable as possible. To schedule an appointment at his practice, Transforming Smiles, visit his website or call (770) 995-7616.