What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a service offered by dental professionals to help you be as relaxed as possible while caring for your teeth and oral health. Using a variety of methods, sedation dentistry can help you experience less anxiety and pain during your dental procedures.
You may benefit from sedation dentistry if you:
- Have increased anxiety with dental work
- Have extensive dental work planned
- Anticipate long or painful procedures
- Have sensitive teeth or gag reflex
There are various types and levels of sedation, depending on the type of dental work you may need done.
What are some types of sedation dentistry?
Your dental specialists at Wall St Dental Spa offer various levels of sedation to meet your needs. Different types of sedation may be more appropriate than others, depending on your dental procedure.
Types of sedation dentistry include:
Inhaled minimal sedation
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is mixed with oxygen and offered through a mask. This helps you relax during a procedure but wears off quickly.
Oral sedation
Oral sedation uses medication in a pill form, given about an hour before your procedure. You are drowsy and relaxed, but still easily awakened. Higher doses of oral sedation can allow you to comfortably sleep through procedures.
Intravenous (IV) moderate sedation
IV sedation is given through your vein, directly into your bloodstream. This works quickly and can be adjusted as needed throughout your procedure. You are semi-awake, and still can be fully awakened easily.
General anesthesia
General anesthesia offers deep sedation, where you are completely unconscious during your procedure. During deep sedation, you cannot be easily awakened and will be unaware of what is happening.
Specialists who have received proper training and certification must administer each type of sedation. Besides inhaled sedation, most types of sedation require you have a driver to take you home after your procedure.
What procedures can be done with sedation dentistry?
Any procedure, ranging from annual cleanings to advanced dental work, can be done using some form of sedation dentistry. Some possible procedures may include:
- Periodontal cleanings
- Dental implants
- Gum repair, including Pinhole® Gum Rejuvenation
- Root canals
- Smile makeover
- Full mouth restoration
- Cavity repair or fillings
- Extractions
- Osseous surgery or bone repair
Whatever the dental work you may need, your dentist can offer ways to keep you comfortable and relaxed during your procedure.
To discuss how sedation dentistry can help you, call or book an appointment online with Wall St Dental Spa.
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