When you have dental anxiety, or if a family member has a fear of the dentist, then you should talk to our team about sedation. We want to ensure you and loved ones can undergo the care necessary to keep smiles healthy and bright. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, dentist talks about dental sedation!
Helping Kids and Adults Alike
We know that kids and adults can have a fear of the dentist. For some, this is rooted in bad prior experiences, while others may simply have no experience at the dentist. We never want to minimize your fears, which is why we’re ready to talk to you and your kids, and to also offer treatments to help you enter a calm and relaxed state when you see us. Dental sedation can help people undergoing more extensive treatments, such as tooth extraction or dental implant placement, or for those with anxiety or an overactive gag reflex or special needs.
Choosing the Right One for You
We offer three different options, but how do we choose the right one for you? Our team will take a number of factors into account, such as your age, weight, medical history, and any medications you are currently taking. We also look at your dental history, anxiety levels, and other factors that could complicate even minor procedures like dental cleanings. With this information, we can choose a sedation option, and we will monitor you throughout the procedure!
Our Calming Agents
The most commonly prescribed option is a mild form of sedation known as nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. You wear a mask over your nose and breathe in a special mixture that helps you enter a deep state of calm immediately. You stay conscious and have little memory of the procedure, but are in a state of comfort and euphoria the entire time. The effects wear off once the procedure ends, so you can return to work or school, or possibly even drive yourself home.
For a more substantial state of calm, we could offer oral conscious sedation, administered via pill or liquid before the procedure begins. You enter a deeper state of calm but still remain conscious, and will have almost no memory of the procedure. With IV, we administer the deepest form intravenously. With these options, you may be a bit groggy and should have someone on hand to bring you home.
Your Dallas, TX, Dentist Offers Comfortable Dental Care
We want to help you enjoy your time in the office, so you look forward to your next visit. For more information on our approach to ensuring a calm experience, then please schedule a consultation by calling the Viva Dental Family Dentistry office nearest you at (214) 337-7800 (Dallas) or (972) 437-6000 (Richardson).
