Oral Conscious Sedation - What You Should Know
Everyone can get a little nervous when it comes to visiting the dentist. You may worry about some small cavities, or if you flossed enough and the dentist will notice. These are common, minor anxieties that everyone experiences when they go in for a checkup. Some people have much more severe issues with anxiety when it comes to dentists and dental visits, however.
Thankfully there is a new tool available for cosmetic and restorative dentists that helps relieve anxious patients and allows these patients to undergo treatment: sedation dentistry.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to various techniques that help put patients in a relaxed state. Sedation dentistry is not the same as general anesthetic, which renders people unconscious. Patients who undergo sedation dentistry will still be conscious, but they will not feel nervousness or panic as they undergo care.
Idea Candidates for Sedation Dentistry
The best candidates for sedation dentistry at our cosmetic and restorative dental care center include:
- People who are afraid of going to the dentist
- People with a poor gag reflex
- People who suffer from cerebral palsy
- People who suffer from Parkinson's disease
- People who require extensive dental care treatment
How does nitrous oxide sedation work?
Nitrous oxide sedation has been a standby for general dental care for many years. Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is inhaled by the patient. Once the patient achieves a relaxed state, dental work can be performed with ease. The patient will not worry about anything thanks to the nitrous oxide.
How does oral conscious sedation work?
Oral conscious sedation is much different from nitrous oxide sedation. The process actually begins at the patient's home. Roughly an hour before the dental visit, the patient will be asked to ingest a prescription pill or liquid. This medication will place the patient in a relaxed state. The patient will need to be driven to and from the visit by a loved one given the effects of the medication.
Which form of sedation is right for me?
It really depends. Both nitrous oxide and oral sedation have proven very effective for patients, though sometimes one may be more sensible for treatment than another. Since each patient is different, it's really important that you stop by for a consultation in order to find out which would be more helpful to you.
Other Options for Advanced Dental Treatment
There's so much more to what we offer than cleanings and other options for general dental care. We have helped many patients achieve their cosmetic and restorative goals through the use of dental implants, teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and more.
We encourage you to drop by for a visit so that we can discuss all of these matters with you in much greater detail.
Schedule a Consultation for Advanced Dental Care
For more information about all of your options for advanced dental care treatment, be sure to contact our Ridgewood cosmetic dentistry center today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible dental health.
