Everything You May Need To Know About Sedation Dentistry

When you undergo any dental procedure, you may be anxious and uncomfortable. This can be even worse if you have multiple procedures at once, such as getting braces and wisdom teeth removed. If you suffer from dental anxiety, we completely understand. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry at Brighter Day Dental. This type of dentistry uses sedative medication to help you relax and feel at ease during dental treatment. Sedation dentistry can help you overcome your anxiety and discomfort before, during, and after your dental procedure.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the use of medication to relax patients during dental procedures. Sedation dentistry is common and often recommended for patients with dental anxiety. Your dentist may offer several levels of sedation depending on your anxiety level and length of treatment.

Types of Sedation

There are a variety of sedation options available. The type of sedation that will be most effective for you will depend on your level of anxiety and the procedure you are having done. During your consultation, we can discuss which type of sedation may be best for you.

• Oral sedation

Oral sedation involves taking an oral medication. This medication is intended to help patients relax and feel comfortable during dental procedures. The medication is typically taken an hour before the procedure. The effects of the medication last for a few hours.

• Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a mild sedative that is delivered through a small mask that fits over the patient’s mouth. The sedative is inhaled through the nose, and the patient then begins to feel slightly relaxed.

Laughing gas is sometimes used in conjunction with local anesthesia. The patient is awake during the procedure, but the sedative will help them feel more relaxed. Laughing gas wears off within minutes of removing the mask, and patients are able to drive themselves home following treatment.

• Intravenous (IV) sedation

IV sedation is administered through an injection in the arm. This type of sedation is often referred to as “twilight” sleep because the patient will be very relaxed and awake, but they will also feel very drowsy. IV sedation can be used for patients who are extremely anxious, who have severe dental anxiety or are undergoing multiple procedures at a time.

Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?

If you have dental anxiety, you may avoid going to the dentist for preventive care. Sedation Dentistry can help you overcome your fear and stop postponing care. Sedation dentistry helps patients relax during procedures, which can make treatment easier. Patients are also less likely to feel pain while sedated. Sedation dentistry can also help patients with a sensitive gag reflex, special needs, or any medical condition that makes it difficult for them to sit still for a long time. 

Visit Brighter Day Dental, 1950 Market Street, Suite D, Concord, CA 94520, for a thorough checkup. Contact us at (925) 356-2828 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.