Sedation Dentistry-How to Get the Dental Care You Need Without the Anxiety

Most adults actively avoid the dental office because of anxiety and phobia. Dental anxiety is a state of excessive uneasiness, apprehension, or fear in anticipation of dental treatment. It is not an ordinary fear, as it prevents people from getting dental care needed to maintain their oral health. The types of treatment, the dentist’s office environment, and the dentist’s demeanor can all cause some level of anxiety in patients.

Apart from generalized fear, some people have dental phobia associated with unpleasant memories or previous negative experiences.

Luckily with sedation dentistry in Oshawa, ON, you can feel comfortable during your procedure.

What is Sedation Dentistry and Why You Need It?

Sedation or sleep dentistry is a form of dental treatment for patients who have dental phobia or anxiety. The sedative drugs used in this procedure help calm and relax the patient while making them more comfortable and less aware of what is happening.

The sedation effects can last for hours after the procedure. This allows patients time to recover and relax before they leave the dental office.

Who is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Many people can benefit from sedation dentistry. However, dental sedation is recommended for dental patients who are anxious, claustrophobic or have a fear of needles. The effects last about an hour and a half depending on what type is used.

If you have a sensitive gag reflex, a dentist in Oshawa, ON, can also recommend dental sedation.

Dentists use different methods to sedate patients, depending on the level of anxiety. But, the commonly used dental sedation is Nitrous Oxide.

What is Nitrous Oxide Sedation Dentistry?

Nitrous oxide sedation dentistry uses nitrous oxide to relieve anxiety and pain.

Nitrous oxide is a gas that has been used as anesthesia for decades to keep the patient relaxed during any procedure.

It is often called laughing gas because it can make people feel giddy and lightheaded. Nitrous oxide dental is not a new concept, but its popularity in the dental field has increased due to its effectiveness and safety.

The use of nitrous oxide allows patients undergoing dental treatments to feel less anxious while their treatment takes place, which leads to less pain and reduced recovery time after their treatment.

It is important to note that it does not take away any pain sensations, but it does make the procedure much more relaxing. This means it is used alongside local anesthesia for complex procedures.

Laughing gas is a good alternative for kids because it is an inhalant, and it has a euphoric effect that makes children happy.

Most dentists prefer to use laughing gas for kid’s dentistry because they only have to get them in and out quickly, which means less time for the child to be scared or anxious. Furthermore, laughing gas wears out quickly and has fewer side effects.

How to Prepare for Sedation?

Consulting our nitrous dentist questions before your appointment can help get rid of any reservations you may have about the sedation. If you have anything in your medical history or any new medications, make sure to tell us so we can be aware!

But, generally, please try to avoid eating a big meal before your appointment. Some people may become nauseous when laughing gas is used, and a heavy meal may make you sick during and after the sedation wears out.

What are the Risks and Side Effects of Dental Sedation?

The most commonly reported side effect of nitrous oxide sedation is nausea or feeling sick to the stomach. You may also experience lightheadedness, dizziness, headaches, and temporary speech problems after dental sedation.

If You Want to Be at Ease, Go with Sedated Dentistry

Dental procedures are not easy tasks to undertake, but with sedation dentistry, it becomes much easier. Sedation dentistry reduces your anxiety, phobia, and gag reflex. This allows you to go through any dental procedure with ease, regardless of the complexity.

Visit Harmony Dental Care for more information about dental sedation, how it works, and what you can expect during and after.