Sedation Dentistry Offers A Stress-Free Dental Experience

Sedation Dentistry

We want to help you get the care you need comfortably today so you don’t have to spend much time with us down the road. We have sedation dentistry options available to help take the edge off of any appointment, ensuring that you feel relaxed and at ease throughout your dental visit. With sedation dentistry, you can receive the treatment you need without stress or discomfort, allowing you to maintain your oral health with confidence and peace of mind.

At Miami Valley Smiles, we understand that folks avoid the dentist for many reasons. It can be an uncomfortable experience for many, but for others, it can be a source of anxiety and legitimate fear that prevents them from seeking the care they need. This leads to a vicious cycle of dental problems, avoiding the dentist, and small problems that progress into serious ones that require more extensive treatment and more time in the chair.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry involves the use of a sedative before or during a dental appointment to help you relax in the chair and make your treatment as comfortable as possible. Sedation has been around as long as dentistry itself and is a safe and effective way to help fearful or anxious patients (or anyone who has trouble receiving care, whatever the reason) get the care they need.

There are several types of sedation that dentists use, including N2O (laughing gas), oral sedation, and IV sedation. At Miami Valley Smiles, we use N2O, oral sedation, and IV sedation. Dr. Lance and our team are highly skilled in administering and monitoring patients with sedation. The type of sedation we use will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Sedation is not the same as general anesthesia. General anesthesia is designed to block pain, to put you to sleep or “all the way under” and requires assisted breathing. Sedation is not designed to knock you out, but to put you in a comfortable, dream-like state. You will be easily awakened and able to respond to the doctor, and you are able to breathe on your own.

Sedation does produce amnesic effects so the details of your appointment will be fuzzy if you remember anything at all, and your appointment will be over before you know it!

Using N2O – Laughing Gas

N2O, commonly known as laughing gas, is a widely used sedation method in dentistry. You might have encountered it before during a dental visit. It’s delivered through a small mask placed over your nose, inducing relaxation. Its effects wear off swiftly after the mask is removed, allowing you to drive home safely.

N2O is perfect for patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety and is frequently utilized for routine maintenance appointments, ensuring a pleasant and worry-free experience. With its ability to induce a state of calmness and ease, N2O helps alleviate anxieties associated with dental procedures, making it easier for patients to undergo treatment comfortably. Its gentle and short-lasting effects make it a preferred choice for both patients and dental professionals, promoting a positive dental experience for all involved.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a medical procedure that involves taking sedative medication before a dental appointment to help patients relax and feel comfortable during the procedure. Oral sedation usually involves taking a pill, such as Halcion, 30-60 minutes before the appointment. The dose is based on several factors including; age, weight, medical history, and length of the appointment.

Oral sedation can help patients feel relaxed and free from stress and anxiety. These effects can last for a few hours to a day after the procedure. Patients must arrange for a driver to take them home after their appointment.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is a stronger form of sedation compared to N2O, typically reserved for patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety or those undergoing extensive treatments. Administered intravenously at the beginning of your appointment, IV sedation induces a deep state of relaxation, allowing you to remain comfortable throughout the procedure. However, due to its potency, it’s important to have someone available to drive you home afterward, as the effects may take several hours to wear off.

If you’re a fearful patient requiring extensive dental work, IV sedation can be an excellent option to complete multiple procedures in a single visit. By using IV sedation, we can ensure that you receive the necessary dental care while keeping you comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire appointment. This approach not only minimizes anxiety and discomfort but also maximizes efficiency, allowing us to address your dental needs comprehensively in a single session.

Schedule A Consultation To Discuss Restorative Dentistry Options

At Miami Valley Smiles in Mason, Ohio, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If it’s been a while since your last dental check-up, or if you’re due for a cleaning, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Your oral health is our top priority, and we’re here to provide you with the best care possible. For more information or to book an appointment, contact call us directly.