For some, going to the dentist can be a challenge. Whether they struggle with dental anxiety, have sensitive gag reflexes, or generally dislike the experience, these individuals can typically benefit from sedation dentistry. To find out if it might be right for you, consult the brief guide below.

What Are Some Types of Dental Sedation?

Most offices offer a range of sedation services to help improve a patient’s experience while getting dental work. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a mild analgesic that’s administered right before a procedure. It helps keep the patient comfortable while allowing them to stay awake. It also wears off fairly quickly.

Dentists can also administer oral sedation. A patient will take prescribed medication a few hours before an appointment so they feel relaxed once it’s time to get into the dentist’s chair. This requires a bit more planning and preparation, as someone will need to escort the patient to and from the appointment. This type of sedation will allow the patient to remain conscious throughout the procedure. 

Dentists may also offer intravenous sedation, which is administered during the procedure to keep patients moderately sedated throughout. Some dentists will give patients an injection of medication before the procedure begins. 

What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

Dental sedation is ideal for people who would otherwise avoid going to the dentist to have necessary work done on their teeth. Sedation options should be considered carefully, and it’s crucial to talk to a dentist about the best one for you.

All sedation options offer a host of benefits, including:

• Anxiety & Trauma Relief: Many patients experience anxiety so extreme that they panic and cannot sit still in the dentist’s chair. Sedation dentistry keeps them calm while the procedure is in process, and makes the experience less frightening so they are more likely to return.
• Minimizes Gag Reflexes: Patients with sensitive gag reflexes or ticks can choke and sputter during a dental procedure, which is dangerous. Sedation dentistry keeps the patient relaxed and still so the work can be successfully performed as quickly as possible. 
• Improves Efficiency: Extensive dental work that requires long hours in the chair can cause anxiety in even the calmest patients. A low dose of sedatives can help keep them comfortable and calm for an extended period, allowing more work to be performed during a single appointment. 

If you think you may benefit from sedation dentistry, get in touch with Waterford Dental Health in New London County, CT. This practice uses the latest technological innovations to keep patients comfortable and calm in the dentist’s chair. Whether you need teeth cleaning, a whitening treatment, or dental implants, the experienced cosmetic dentists are dedicated to providing superior dental care and first-rate customer service. Visit their website to learn more about their procedures or call (860) 447-2235 to schedule an appointment.