Could Sedation Dentistry in Oshawa be Right for You?

One of the most common phobias is fear of dentists.. Often, this is due to a bad experience in their past. In other cases, anxiety over going to the dentist stems for the strange noises, an unfamiliar setting, or a fear of pain. In many of these situations, sedation dentistry in Oshawa can help.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

With sedation dentistry, you will feel calm and relaxed in the dentist chair. You will be awake throughout the procedure, but you may remember little of the experience afterward. You can receive the sedative in one of three different forms:

• Nitrous oxide gas delivers the mildest form of sedation. You inhale the gas through a mask placed over your nose. Your dentist controls the level of sedation at all times and the sedative wears off instantly after you remove the mask.

• Oral sedation is a mild to moderate form of sedation, depending on the dosage. You take a pill one hour before the procedure.

• You can also receive moderate sedation through an IV. Like gas, your dentist can control the level of sedation. IV sedation may be unsuitable for patients with a phobia of needles.

How do I Know if Sedation Dentistry is Right for Me?

Patients with phobias of dental procedures or general anxiety can benefit from sedation. However, your Oshawa dentist may also recommend sedation as an option if you have sensitive oral nerves, a small mouth, a strong gag reflex, or a resistance to local anesthesia.

Most often, sedation dentistry is offered for complex procedures, such as root canals, extractions, and surgery. Sedation is uncommon for dental checkups, cleanings, and X-rays. However, if your phobia is preventing you from receiving routine care, your dentist may recommend sedation at every visit. This can prevent the need for extensive treatment to treat what should be minor fixes if handled early.