Going to the dentist isn’t easy for everyone. While some people struggle with dental anxiety, others have issues with gag reflexes or nervous ticks that make it difficult to hold still while dentists perform repairs and preventative procedures. Fortunately, with sedation dentistry, your dentist can help you relax during your appointment. Find out more about how it might improve your next visit.

What Varieties of Sedative Dentistry Are Available? 

In addition to inhaled nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, which acts as a mild analgesic, dentists also offer oral, IV, and deep sedation to help patients rest during the appointment. The first three options are the most common because they allow the patient to remain awake.

Oral sedation involves taking medication before the appointment. After checking your medical history and talking with you about your fears, your dentist may prescribe a pill like Halcion. You will take the medicine an hour or two beforehand so you are relaxed when your appointment begins. Because the medicine will make you feel sleepy, you will need someone to come with you to the appointment. 

If your dentist wants to control your level of sedation more carefully, they may recommend an injection of medication before the appointment. Other dentists use intravenous sedation, which keeps patients moderately sedated throughout the appointment. 

How Does Sedation Dentistry Help?

When you undergo sedation at the dentist’s office, you may or may not remember the appointment, which can help people who struggle with anxiety. Since sedation dentistry can also reduce patient movement while undergoing dental procedures, it may also improve the outcome of your dental appointment. Overall, you’ll go in and out without fear, making your experience much more pleasant.

If you struggle with dental anxiety or other conditions that impact your ability to have a successful dental appointment, consult Stephen R. Ho, DDS. As the first dentist in Waikiki, this experienced professional has offered comprehensive dental care to residents throughout the greater Honolulu, HI, area for more than 30 years. With a gentle approach and a commitment to conservative dentistry, Dr. Ho helps patients feel more comfortable to make the dental care process easier. Request an appointment online or by calling (808) 949-4288 today.