Many patients suffer from fear of the dentist on some level. But sometimes, that fear can escalate to anxiety. Dental anxiety often makes it difficult for patients to get the care and treatment they need for their oral health. Sedation dentistry in Destrehan, LA, may be able to help you feel more calm and relaxed when seeking dental treatment. When administered by a trained and certified dentist, sedation methods can often be used to help with both routine and extensive dental procedures.
Types of Sedation Dentistry in Destrehan, LA
Sedation methods come in a few different forms. Most dental offices tend to use sedation methods that help patients retain their consciousness during treatment. This allows you to respond to stimuli and stay aware of what’s going on around you. The most common methods of sedation are nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation.
Nitrous Oxide
Often referred to as ‘laughing gas’, nitrous oxide is a relaxant administered through a nasal mask. When patients breathe in the gas, they report feeling more relaxed during treatment. Nitrous oxide is safe to use for most patients. Some side effects include drowsiness and nausea, but many patients report a quick recovery time post-treatment. During the procedure, your dentist will continue to monitor your nitrous oxide intake to ensure your health and safety.
Nitrous oxide is a great option for patients who fear specific dental procedures or equipment. For example, a patient who is afraid of needles may benefit from nitrous oxide when getting treatment that requires local anesthetic. It can also be a great benefit to patients who have long treatments or those who suffer from mobility issues. The relaxing effect can often help improve your comfort level during difficult procedures.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Another method of sedation dentistry is oral conscious sedation. For this, patients take a prescribed pill about an hour prior to their appointment. These pills provide a similar relaxing and calming effect for patients as nitrous oxide. However, the effects kick in before the appointment and tend to stick around for a while afterward. This can be beneficial for patients who have a general fear of the dentist and need to be sedated even while in the waiting room. Because the effects can be stronger and last longer, it’s highly important that patients arrange transport to and from their appointments.
What to Expect With Sedation Dentistry
If it’s your first time using sedation methods, it’s natural to feel a little apprehensive. With nitrous oxide, the effects tend to be fairly quick, helping you feel more at ease while breathing in the gas. Oral sedation methods take a little longer to kick in. While you are conscious, some patients experience extreme sleepiness and may even fall asleep during the procedure. It can be a good idea to bring a trusted friend or family member along during your first appointment to help facilitate communication with your dentist and gather any aftercare information you may need.
If you’re afraid of the dentist, Plantation Road Dental Care is here to help. Call us today at (985) 231-2770 to schedule a consultation and see if sedation dentistry is right for you.