Types of Sedation Dentistry Options

Sedation dentistry refers to sedation methods that can be used during dental visits to ease patient fears and anxieties. This can be extremely helpful to patients who have a fear of the dentist or who have trouble sitting still for long periods of time. Some patients even undergo sedation dentistry if they have dental phobias, which sometimes leads to avoidance of the dentist entirely.

There are several types of sedation dentistry. They include:

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is a minimally-invasive, short-term dental procedure that allows patients to be sedated comfortably and stay awake during the dental procedure. Many patients prefer oral conscious sedation because it requires no needles and allows them to relax during a procedure.

Your dentist will prescribe a sedative medication to be taken one hour before your procedure. The sedative will help you feel relaxed and allow you to drift into a relaxed, sleepy state. This sedation does not affect normal cognitive abilities.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide is a common sedation dentistry technique. Nitrous oxide is safe to use on children and adults alike. This substance works quickly and wears off quickly as well. Once a patient is weaned off the gas, they usually have no memory of their dental experience.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is good for patients with dental anxiety. This type of sedation places you in a deeply relaxed state, where you will likely not remember much of your appointment. The effects of IV sedation can last for several hours after treatment.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is a controlled state of unconsciousness that eliminates your pain and anxiety. While you are unconscious, your dental team can perform extensive dental work to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy. General anesthesia is provided by your anesthesiologist, who comes into the office and cares for you throughout your treatment.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Yes, sedation dentistry is safe. Some patients do experience some side effects, including nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, or fatigue. However, the risk of side effects is greatly outweighed by the many benefits. If you feel nervous about your procedure, be sure to let us know!

To learn more about our dental services or schedule an appointment with us, call our dentist at (817) 924-6211 or visit our dental office located at 2469 Forest Park Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76110.