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If you or someone you know has been afraid of the dentist, there is new hope with advancements in dentistry. Sedation dentistry can help you forget about needles, shots, tooth extractions, and other unpleasant dental stimuli. If you are afraid of a certain procedure or just everything about dentistry, sedation dentistry can help eliminate your fears. Your dentist in Cincinnati offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation and IV sedation to complete the dental work necessary to help you gain a healthy, glowing smile. Who is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry? Sedation dentistry is appropriate for people who have:
* High fear
* Traumatic dental experiences
* Difficulty getting numb
* A bad gag reflex
* Very sensitive teeth
* Complex dental problems
* Limited time to complete dental care
It is also appropriate for people who:
* Hate needles and shots
* Hate the noises, smells and tastes associated with dental care
* Are afraid or embarrassed by their teeth What is Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)? Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a gas that can be mixed with oxygen and inhaled for a mild degree of sedation. A nose-piece is typically used to administer this sedative. It is used to significantly reduce your fears and discomfort while receiving dental treatment. Some of the benefits of nitrous oxide include:
* Its effective for mild to moderate anxiety
* Proven safety record
* Offers a pain relieving effect
* It's quick-acting, with few side effects
* You don't need someone to escort you home from the office
* You can return to normal activities immediately
* In many cases, you can get all of your dental work done in one visit
Nitrous oxide is best suited for cases of mild to moderate anxiety and is the most frequently used sedation method. Under nitrous oxide you will remain conscious and able to breathe on your own, with a sense of total well-being. What is Oral Sedation? Oral sedation can provide a higher degree of sedation than nitrous oxide. It is a medication that is taken by mouth just prior to your dental appointment. A variety of medications, including valium, may be used for oral sedation. Oral sedation does not require needles to administer and utilizes oral sedation medication to reduce your fears and discomforts. Unlike general anesthesia, which renders patients completely unconscious, oral sedation leaves you conscious with the ability to speak and breathe on your own. What is Intravenous (IV) Sedation? Intravenous sedation is extremely effective for moderate to severe anxiety and is quick-acting. The level of sedation can be adjusted during the procedure so that you remain comfortable at all times. During intravenous sedation (IV sedation), an anti-anxiety drug is administered into the bloodstream to achieve a state of deep conscious sedation. Although you are not actually asleep, you will enjoy a heightened sense of relaxation. Your appointment will seem like a dream and hours in the chair may feel like minutes. Throughout the procedure, your breathing, heart rate and blood pressure will be closely monitored. Patients generally recover quickly, but they may feel slightly groggy immediately after the procedure is completed. IV sedation is extremely safe when delivered by a trained dentist or anesthesiologist. Don't let fear keep you from having a healthy, sparkling smile. Sedation dentistry can put you at ease and virtually eliminates the pain associated with dental procedures. Contact your Cincinnati sedation dentist today for further information on how sedation dentistry can help with your next dental appointment.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Cincinnati general dentist, Dr. Stuart Levy. Dr. Levy is a 1986 graduate of Ohio State University College of Dentistry and has extensive experience and training in procedures for patients needing cosmetic and restorative care. From dental prosthetics to implants in Cincinnati, Dr. Levy provides patients with the latest in modern technology and the best, quality service.
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