Sedation dentistry is beneficial for patients with dental fear or anxiety. Dentists also use it on patients who are undergoing surgery or complex procedures. Dental sedation allows patients to feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental treatments.
Columbia Family Dental Care provides sedation dentistry to patients in Columbia, MD. Patients may benefit from sedation dentistry if they have tooth sensitivity, a gag reflex, fear or anxiety, or just want more comfortable general dental treatment. Sometimes patients may not even remember the dental treatment while they were sedated.
Why Choose Dental Sedation?
Using modern sedation methods, we can provide the most comfortable care possible. Dr. Sulekha Agrawal and her friendly staff work with patients one-to-one to ensure that they feel relaxed before, during, and after their procedure.
Many patients avoid going to the dentist because they are anxious or fearful. However, when patients avoid going to the dentist, they may not be treating their dental problems. It is important for us to diagnose and treat problems early on to avoid more costly and complex treatments down the road.
Using sedation during a dentist appointment reduces trauma for the patient. This means less muscles joint and muscle soreness from not tensing up and the patient will not remember much from the appointment. It also allows the dentist to complete more treatments in a timelier manner.
We will help decide which sedation option is best for you during a pre-procedure consultation. Our dentists will also explain the treatment process to you so you can feel more involved and comfortable with your care.
Common Types of Dental Sedation
Sedation dentistry alleviates anxiety and provides a relaxing dental experience. With both types of sedation, patients can maintain full control of their body and breath normally. Patients will be awake but simply in a very deep state of relaxation. Most people will not even remember what took place during the appointment especially any pain or discomfort that is felt. Some of the most common methods of dental sedation include:
- Oral Conscious: Administered through the mouth before treatment, oral conscious sedation allows patients to remain comfortable and conscious during their treatment. Patients are also able to respond to their dentist with this type of sedation. Under oral sedation, patients feel calm and relaxed. Patients who undergo oral sedation will need someone to drive them to and from their dental appointment.
- Nitrous Oxide: Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is inhaled through a nasal mask that you will wear through the entire appointment. It has been used in dentistry for many years and is very safe. It is very convenient and easy. Nitrous oxide takes effect very quickly and the effects of it will dissipate when we remove the mask. Under this form of sedation, patients feel calm and may even fall asleep during treatment. Patients can drive themselves to and from their appointment because nitrous oxide wears off quickly.
Learn More About Sedation Dentistry
If you feel that sedation dentistry can help you receive the dental care you need, call our office today to discuss your options. Sedation help you continue a normal oral care routine or get you back on track.