The human mouth is full of many sensitive nerves and tissues, particularly within the teeth and gums. Usually, these nerves will alert you to a potential dental problem that requires treatment—such as an abscessed tooth. However, these nerves may also cause discomfort during dental work. For those who are afraid of the dentist, the anticipation of sensitively can be especially uncomfortable. Fortunately, the following sedation dentistry techniques can ease your anxiety and block pain signals to help you get the treatment you need for a healthy smile.

Sedation Solutions Your Dentist May Provide  

1. Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is a solution that is applied directly to the tooth, usually by injecting it into the gum tissue. After a slight pinch, the area will numb, allowing you to stay conscious while preventing you from feeling pain. This technique is generally used for non-invasive procedures, such as cavity fillings and tooth extractions.

2. General Anesthesia

Unlike local anesthetics, general anesthesia is provided to the entire body, typically by way of the bloodstream. While this medication promotes a loss of consciousness that will block pain signals, you will remain somewhat responsive under the care of your dentist. This option is typically reserved for oral surgeries—such as wisdom teeth removal and jaw surgery.

3. Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a fantastic option for patients who experience heightened anxiety in the dentist’s chair. Essentially, this technique involves taking a series of pills before the appointment to help calm the nerves, but keep the patient conscious. It’s often recommended to young children whose fear of the dentist makes them reluctant to receive care.

4. IV Sedation

Intravenous or IV sedation is injected into the body through the veins to promote a quick relaxing effect. While this sedation dentistry treatment will put you at ease, it does not block pain. As such, local anesthesia may be required if you’re receiving dental work.  

5. Nitrous Oxide

Widely known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a gas that is inhaled by the patient while wearing a nasal mask. Often used in combination with local anesthesia, nitrous oxide helps minimize pain signals to the brain, while inducing a sense of drowsy relaxation. Once the flow of gas is cut off, the medication will wear off quickly. However, patients will typically be somewhat disoriented and require someone else to drive them home.

Whether you’re in need of wisdom teeth removal or a candidate for dental implants, Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska can introduce you to advanced sedation solutions to improve your comfort during treatment. Serving the Anchorage, AK, community, this team of oral surgeons will help you explore different sedation dentistry techniques to determine which is best for your treatment needs and personal comfort level. To learn more about these oral surgery services, visit this practice online. For appointments, call (907) 561-1430.