If you feel anxiety when you visit the dentist, rest assured that you’re not alone. Dental anxiety may stem from past dental trauma, frightening stories shared by others, or a general fear of the unknown. The fact is, few people love going to the dentist. However, individuals who suffer from dental anxiety or have dental phobias genuinely may need help to get the dental care they need. Let’s explore sedation dentistry and what it has to offer.

About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry uses medications or techniques that help a patient relax and remain calm before and during dental procedures. You will sometimes see sedation dentistry, called “sleep dentistry.” However, in most cases, patients are usually awake during procedures or in a state of “twilight sleep,” in which they are aware of what’s going on around them but may not remember it well.

The Levels of Sedation Dentistry

There are four basic sedation levels:

• Minimal sedation: Minimally sedated patients remain relaxed but stay completely awake.
• Conscious sedation (moderate sedation): With conscious sedation, patients may slur their words while speaking and may not remember the procedure.

Oral Conscious Sedation

With oral conscious sedation, the dentist administers oral medication to help the patient relax. If you choose oral conscious sedation, you will need someone to drive you home after your procedure.

Nitrous Oxide

Sometimes called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide doesn’t cause patients to start laughing. Instead, it quickly puts them into a very relaxed state that can take the edge off of their anxiety. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off as soon as the staff removes the gas from your nose so that you can drive yourself home afterward. 

Benefits

Sedation dentistry offers several benefits.

• Faster procedures: When patients receive sedation, the dentist can work more quickly without worrying about patients squirming in the chair, allowing them to return home to rest sooner.
• Reduced anxiety: Anxiety is the primary reason some patients opt for sedation dentistry. Conscious sedation allows them to relax while still being able to communicate with the dentist and their staff.
• Less gag reflex: Many people have a natural gag reflex that complicates dental work. Sedation dentistry can help control the gag reflex.
• Minimizing Pain: Procedures like dental implants may be painful if a patient is awake, especially for individuals with a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth.
• Fewer visits for comprehensive treatment: If a person undergoes sedation, the dentist can perform multiple procedures. This way, the patient doesn’t have to make as many trips to the office.

Sedation Dentistry Near Me: Your Dentist in Franklin, Ohio

If you’re looking for dentists who do sedation in Franklin, OH, contact K&E Advanced Dentistry today. You can call us at (855) 912-7677 or request an appointment on our website.