Sedation Dentistry- What Method is Best for You?

Do you have trouble relaxing at the dentist? Does a fear of the dental chair keep you from making regular appointments? If any of these behaviors sound familiar, you may be one of the many Americans suffering from dental fear or anxiety. For these individuals, sedation dentistry offers an effective option for alleviating feeling of anxiety while in the dental chair.

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help nervous patients relax and to improve overall patient comfort during dental procedures. It can be used for virtually any dental procedure, from in-depth procedures to routine cleanings.

Nitrous Gas versus Oral Sedation

There are different levels of sedation used by medical professionals, each of which are recommended based on the patient’s need and the extent of their upcoming procedure. At Grandon Village Dental, your San Marcos dentist offers two types of sedation- nitrous gas and an oral sedative.

Nitrous Gas- More popularly known as “laughing gas,” this sedative option is breathed in through a mask.  Nitrous oxide is very relaxing, and your dentist can control the intensity of the sedation. As this option does wear off fairly quickly, it is the only form of sedation where most patients are able to drive themselves home after the procedure.

Oral Sedation- The strength of your oral sedative can range from minimal to moderate strength. Our San Marcos dental office offers Halcion administered in pill form. This medication is very similar to valium, and is taken an hour before the procedure takes place. Oral sedation does tend to make patients drowsy and relaxed, however patients stay awake for their entire procedure. As a result, we have patients enlist the help of a family member or friend to drive them to our practice before and after their procedure.

Sedation dentistry is perfect for patients who have a genuine fear of the dentist, have a low pain tolerance, have sensitive teeth, or have an overactive gag reflex.

Make an Appointment!

Don’t let your anxiety get the best of you! Regular dental appointments are very important, so don’t let a fear of dental procedures make you avoid them. Contact us today at Grandon Village Dental Office and we will talk over sedation options for your next visit!