Top 4 Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Many people avoid the dentist because of anxiety. Sedation dentistry uses a combination of techniques, ranging from laughing gas to IVs, to relax a patient during surgeries, uncomfortable appointments or routine check-ups.

The doctors and the team of oral healthcare professionals at Chaparral Valley Dental, located near you in Calgary, Alberta, want to educate its patients, current and new, and the use and the effects of sedation dentistry. Chaparral Valley Dental compiled a list of the top four questions it receives about the techniques and the benefits of this practice.

• Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?Yes. The doctors at Chaparral Valley Dental are trained in the most innovative techniques in relaxation and sedation.
• What Types of Sedation Dentistry are Available?
• The treatment types listed and explained below are in the order of increasing strength and potency.
  • Inhalation Sedation – nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a sweet-smelling gas administered through an inhaler.
  • Oral Sedation – a sedative, usually in pill form, is prescribed for the patient to take before the appointment, with a smaller dosage given before the procedure.
  • IV Sedation – this type of sedation is administered intravenously. This type is the preferred method for patients with high anxiety or for those undergoing a longer, invasive procedure.

With each of these sedation types, the patient may not be completely out, but relaxed enough so as to not remember the treatment.

• How Long will the Medication Last?

Nitrous oxide wears off after the procedure is complete. Many times, patients return to work, or to their daily activities, without any hangover effects.

Oral and IV sedations will linger for a few hours after the procedure, and patients need to be accompanied by someone to drive them home. It is advisable that, for procedures requiring a more potent sedation, these appointments be made in the afternoon. This way, the patient will have the night for the effects of the sedation to wear off before returning to work or daily activities.

• What Does Being Sedated Feel like?

Patients often report feeling happy, relaxed and warm. There are some patients who do not remember feeling anything, nor do they remember anything about the procedure.

If you would like a consultation for additional information on sedation dentistry for you or for a member of your family, then please contact the oral healthcare professionals at Chaparral Valley Dental where new patients are always welcome.

Chaparral Valley Dental is trusted and highly recommended for sedation techniques, as well as other treatments and procedures in general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry.