Sedation
Sedation Dentistry is used to provide a relaxing and anxiety-free experience for certain people receiving dental treatment. It enables individuals too afraid to go to the dentist to receive the dental care they need while avoiding the common apprehension known as dental phobia.
According to to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS Education), a professional dental organization dedicated to ensuring that patients receive safe, comfortable and anxiety-free dental care, 30 percent of the population avoids the dentist due to fear. This all-too-common “dental phobia” prevents people from receiving necessary routine dental care, potentially compromising the health and functionality of their mouth and smile.
What is Sedation?
Sedation is a process used to establish a relaxed, easy and calm state through the use of sedatives. Sedative drugs (tranquillizers, depressants, anti-anxiety medications, nitrous oxide, etc.) can be administered in a variety of ways. In the past, intravenous (IV) sedation – sedatives delivered via injection into the blood vessels of the hand or arm – was predominantly used to sedate a dental patient. IV sedation is both safe and effective when administered by a trained professional.
Today, however, sedation dentistry has evolved to be even more conducive to a relaxing experience. Patients have alternatives to the traditional modalities of inhalation (nitrous oxide or “laughing gas”) and IVs, such as those offering a “no needle” (meaning, no injection) approach that many people find more appealing.
Oral sedation
Oral sedation is a simple and effective way to reduce dental anxiety. It’s the most common method used in the U.S. and Canada to help patients feel calm during treatment—and it doesn’t require any needles. Most people feel so relaxed, they feel as if they slept through the appointment. In reality, you’re still awake enough to respond and stay safe throughout the procedure. Sedation is different from numbing. Even with sedation, most dental treatments still require a local anesthetic (a shot) to fully prevent pain. Some types of sedation, like nitrous oxide, may help reduce pain sensitivity, but don’t replace anesthesia. For more details, visit SedationCare.com.
This local anesthetic will temporarily block pain impulses from the affected teeth and gum tissue. However, this injection will occur after you are already sedated and comfortable, so most likely you won’t be bothered by or remember the sensation of having the injection.
At The Austin Dentist, we understand that dental anxiety is real, and we’re here to help. If fear or stress has kept you from the care you need, sedation dentistry may be the right path forward. Our team is trained, compassionate, and focused on making your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Say Goodbye to Dental Anxiety
To learn more or schedule your appointment, contact us today—we’re here to help you feel at ease every step of the way.
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