Are you part of the 15 percent of Americans who deal with bouts of dental anxiety? Do you find yourself cancelling appointment after appointment until you work up enough courage to go? If so, we have a wonderful option that will make your next dental visit a walk in the park.
What is sedation dentistry?
Your Las Cruces dentist offers sedation dentistry as a way to help patients relax during their procedure. However, sedation dentistry can be used for anything, even routine dental cleanings. You don’t have to have a major procedure in order to opt for sedation; that’s what makes it a great option for those with dental anxiety. There are several different types of sedation levels:
Minimal sedation: You will be awake during your visit but you will feel calm and relaxed.
Moderate sedation (or “conscious sedationâ€): you will still be awake but you won’t remember much about your procedure. However, you’ll still be able to cooperate and respond to your dentist’s requests.
Deep sedation: You are close to being unconscious but you can still be woken up easily.
What types of sedation does your Las Cruces dentist offer?
Most patients will either opt for inhalation or oral sedation. Inhalation sedation is better known as nitrous oxide. The gas is combined with oxygen in a mask that is placed over your nose. The advantage of using nitrous oxide is that it wears off fast, so you can drive home after your visit.
Oral sedation often comes in the form of an anxiolytic medication like Valium. A patient will usually take the pill about an hour before their dental procedure. You will still remain awake, but you will feel relaxed and a little drowsy. Some people may fall asleep using oral sedation; however, they can easily be awakened.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Anxiolytics and nitrous oxide have been used safely and effectively for decades; however, with any sedation comes risks. Luckily, these minimal and moderate forms of sedation promise less risk and chance of side effects than general anesthesia. Talk to your Las Cruces dentist about your medical history and about any medications you are currently taking to find out if sedation is right for you.
Who can benefit from sedation dentistry?
Those who have a fear of the dentist can greatly benefit from sedation dentistry in Las Cruces; however, there are a host of other people who may also find sedation dentistry advantageous including those with sensitive gag reflexes, those who need extensive dental work, those who can’t sit for long periods of time and those with special needs.
If it sounds like sedation dentistry could help calm your dental fears, then you’ve come to the right place. When you call us to schedule your next appointment, let us know that you are interested in sedation. We want to make your next visit as easy on you as possible.