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In the interests of keeping their patients comfortable and stress-free, Family First Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, is proud to offer sedation dentistry to those who need it. While it may not be for everyone, it can help nervous patients relax and have a better experience.

Here, Anchorage’s leading family dentistry will explain the main types of sedation they use, along with their benefits:

  • Local Anesthesia: Many dental procedures, such as fillings and periodontal teeth cleanings, use local anesthesia or a numbing agent, which is typically administered via injection directly to the gums. It does not cause drowsiness, and patients remain fully conscious.

  • family dentistryOral Sedation: This type of sedation is most appropriate for patients — often children — who are afraid of needles or can’t use nitrous oxide. While it makes patients drowsy, they don’t necessarily fall asleep. This is one of the most common types of sedation used at a family dentistry.

  • Inhalation Sedation (Nitrous Oxide): By far, the most recognized dentist’s office sedation technique is nitrous oxide. When administered by a dental technician, it is extremely safe and has a reputation for making patients feel euphoric and relaxed. There is no “hangover” effect from nitrous, meaning patients can safely drive home after a procedure.

  • IV Sedation: Patients don’t often require this type of sedation, but some notable exceptions are during wisdom teeth extraction and root canal treatment. The main benefits of IV sedation are that it’s fast-acting and its dosage can be easily and quickly adjusted. High doses can sometimes cause amnesia in patients, where many feel that their procedures lasted only a few minutes.

Dental sedation should never be used with over-the-counter painkillers or certain medications. Always tell your dentist if you’ve taken any prior to your appointment, as your safety depends on it. For more information about Family First Dentistry, give them a call at (907) 562-2820 or visit the local family dentistry online. You can also connect with the staff on Facebook and Twitter.

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