Sedation Dentistry the advantages and different options available to me?

Sedation (or sleep) dentistry is an effective and safe option available to dental patients who need it and can be used for a variety of reasons. If you suffer from dental anxiety or fear, this is one way you can be made comfortable during your procedure. Sedation can also be used when the dental procedure is surgical in nature, and the patient needs to sleep. Whatever the reason may be, sedation techniques were developed to make the experience comfortable for patients. If you are in the Burlington, Ontario area and are interested in sedation dentistry, Dr. Sam Gupta and the team at Mount Royal Dental are here to help!

Before undergoing any form of anesthesia, it is important to understand what is happening and if it is right for you. Here are some questions you can ask about sedation dentistry.

What are the benefits?

Sedation dentistry can be required for a number of reasons. If you avoid the dentist because the thought of needles and drills causes your anxiety to spike or you are just plain afraid, this is a wonderful option meant to put you at ease. There are several options available to patients ranging from nitrous oxide (laughing gas)  to deep sedation. 

Another benefit applies to patients who have a hard time staying still in the dentist’s chair. Children, for instance, may find it difficult to remain still when a cavity is being filled. Sedation dentistry can either allow them to drift off to sleep or, at the very least, calm them down so they can remain still throughout the procedure. 

What options are available to me?

When discussing dental sedation, your dentist will likely have several options that they utilize based on the given situation.

• Nitrous Oxide, or laughing gas, is great for calming patients with mild dental anxiety. It is a gas that is breathed in through a mask fitted over the nose and works immediately. 
• Oral Sedatives are given in pill form.Although directions vary by individual, usually,  You will need to take one the night before your procedure and then another shortly before your appointment. You remain conscious but will be very relaxed.
• IV Sedation is delivered directly into your bloodstream through an IV. You will remain responsive during the dental procedure but will be incredibly relaxed. If you’re lucky enough, you may be one of the patients to even fall asleep during under IV sedation.
• Deep Sedation may be offered on request and is typically reserved for complex procedures.

To learn more about sedation dentistry options in the Burlington, ON area, reach out to Dr. Sam Gupta at Mount Royal Dental. Please call (905) 581-9912.

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