What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Simply put, it’s a method our team uses for one of two situations: To help our anxious patients relax during your procedure or to help sedate patients for more complex procedures. The sedation we offer is all safe and effective to help you feel comfortable and at ease at our office–a feeling we want all our patients to have when visiting SWAN Dental! Whether you have mild dental anxiety or a more severe fear, sedation dentistry can make your experience more pleasant.
Our Sedation Options
Nitrous Oxide
Laughing Gas
This is a mild sedative gas that is inhaled through a mask. It can help you relax and reduce anxiety. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, which usually means that you are able to go about your day normally after your appointment.
Oral Sedation
This option involves taking a pill before your appointment to induce a state of relaxation. It’s best suited for patients that require a deeper level of relaxation but don’t necessarily want to be asleep during their procedure.
IV Sedation
This is administered intravenously to provide a more precise level of sedation. This option is best for patients with severe dental anxiety or those undergoing complex procedures. You'll be unconscious during the procedure and won't remember anything.
The Benefits
- It can reduce your anxiety and fear by calming your nerves and making you feel more at ease during your procedure.
- It helps time pass more quickly, making long or complex procedures more comfortable–you'll be able to truly relax while Dr. Rodriguez or Dr. Nguyen works on your smile.
- It makes it possible for patients with special needs, such as those with disabilities or severe anxiety, to receive the dental care they need.
What to Expect During and After Sedation
Before Your Appointment
Before visiting us for your appointment, it's important that you follow our instructions regarding your chosen sedation method. This may include avoiding certain medications, food, and drinks for a specific period. But don’t worry, we’ll give you all the information you need and inform you of any potential side effects beforehand!
During Your Appointment
For the most part, your sedation will be straightforward. You'll be given medication, either orally or intravenously, to induce a relaxed state. As your sedation takes effect, you'll feel increasingly calm and drowsy. Dr. Rodriguez or Dr. Nguyen will then proceed with your procedure.
After Your Appointment
Once you are done, our team will keep a close eye on you as the sedation wears off. You may experience some grogginess or fatigue, so it's important to have a designated driver to take you home. When you get home, you should rest up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when administered by our qualified dental professional.
The duration of your sedation will depend on the type of sedation used, as well as your unique reaction to the sedation.
Depending on the type of sedation, you are able to be awake but relaxed or completely unconscious–we can help you find a suitable sedation depending on your needs.
Recovery time usually varies, but most of our patients return to normal activities the following day.
Ready to Conquer Your Dental Fears?
We offer sedation dentistry to help make your experience at SWAN Dental more comfortable and stress-free. If you want to learn more about how it can benefit you, or you would like to book an appointment, please get in touch with our team.