Sedation Dentistry Can Reduce Fears And Allow For A More Pleasurable Dental Experience

Why are people afraid of going to the dentist? There is not necessarily a simple answer to this question. Hollywood stereotypes, sharp instruments, and discomfort are just a few of the of the contributing factors. There are a variety of ways that dentists make patients feel more comfortable while in the dental chair, but perhaps none of them make the experience quite as enjoyable as sedation dentistry. The enjoyment is not because it is a fun time to be had by all, but rather because most patients just don’t remember or recall the procedure.

People that have anxieties about going to the dentist avoid treatment, until they can no longer stand the pain. These acts often leave teeth in less than stellar condition, and in many cases, the damage is irreversible. Extractions might be needed to prevent further discomfort and stop infections from spreading. Of course, there are ways to replace a missing tooth like with a dental implant, but avoid putting off treatment and keep your natural teeth in your mouth where they belong.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide, also commonly referred to as laughing gas, is a compound that becomes mixed with oxygen and inhaled by the patient during a procedure. It is a mild sedative that helps reduce anxiety so that the dentist can perform work on the teeth or gums. The solution is safe for use on children or adults, and the effects typically wear off promptly after the gas is shut down. In many cases, patients can even drive themselves home afterward, but it won’t hurt anything to have a driver standing by just in case.

The Ins And Outs Of Oral Conscious Sedation

A pill is given to patients to take upon arriving at the office for their procedure. In a short period, a sleep-like state befalls them, and the dentist can complete the tasks, which in some cases is a whole year’s worth of work in as little as one or two visits. You will not be able to drive afterward, so in this case, be sure that you have a driver to take you home. This act is not only for your safety but also for the rest of the Long Island drivers on the roads. The groggy feelings will dissipate in a short amount of time, and it is likely that you will have little to no recollection of the events that took place at all. Ask your dentist if sedation dentistry is the right choice for your situation to avoid neglecting your teeth any longer when anxiety is an issue.