Sedation Dentistry

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We get it – many people feel that having dental work done is extremely stressful. It could be a fear of dental equipment causing anxiety, or even a natural low-tolerance to pain or pressure that cause people to actively avoid trips to the dentist.

That’s why 425 Dental is proud to offer Sedation Dentistry techniques for many of the procedures offered in our office.

Sedation is administered safely and effectively to help manage pain, calm nerves, and allow successful completion of required dental work.

Laughing Gas

As the mild form of sedation offered in our office, the administration of laughing gas is available to combat anxiety for most dental procedures offered by 425 Dental.

The gas, which is odorless and combined with oxygen, is administered through a small mask. It creates a sensation of relaxation and euphoria in the patient, melting anxiety away and allowing your dental procedure to proceed. It’ll probably cause everything to seem extra funny to you – hence the name! The level of sedation can be quickly and easily customized, so no need to worry if you’re getting too much or too little.

There are no lasting side-effects to laughing gas, and no need to fear any short-term memory loss – the effects of the gas wear off very quickly after your treatment has ended. You’ll be able to speak with the team normally and drive yourself home without someone to escort you.

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IV Sedation

For larger procedures performed by an oral surgeon, such as an extraction or an implant, IV Sedation may be recommended to maximize safety and provide a strong sense of comfort to the patient.

IV Sedation works quickly and the dosage can be quickly altered, like laughing gas, but will put you in a form of conscious sedation. That means you won’t be asleep for your procedure, but you won’t exactly be aware of what’s going on. You’ll “wake up” a little while after your treatment is over, without memory of the work you just received.

IV sedation is administered under the watchful eye of your oral surgeon, and patients remain closely monitored throughout their procedure to ensure safety. Patients MUST have an escort with them to safely get them home following IV sedation.

Sedation dentistry, whether it be via laughing gas or IV, is a fantastic way for those with anxiety to be able to get much needed dental work done, but it may not be for everyone. Be sure to speak with the team at 425 Dental about your options, and we’ll be happy to explain why sedation dentistry may or may not be the ideal option for you.

Oral Sedation

For more extensive dental procedures or for patients who experience significant anxiety, Oral Sedation may be recommended to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience. Unlike IV Sedation, which is administered intravenously, Oral Sedation involves taking a medication—such as Halcion—prior to your appointment.

Oral Sedation helps you feel deeply relaxed and at ease throughout your procedure. While you will be conscious, the sedative effects will make you feel drowsy and less aware of the dental work being done. Many patients find that they have little to no memory of the procedure afterward, making it an excellent option for those with dental anxiety.

Oral Sedation is administered under the careful supervision of our general dentists or specialists, and patients are closely monitored throughout their treatment to ensure safety. It is essential that patients have a responsible escort to drive them home after the appointment, as the effects of the sedation can linger for several hours.

Sedation dentistry, whether through Oral Sedation or other methods like IV Sedation or laughing gas, provides a valuable option for patients who may otherwise avoid necessary dental care due to anxiety or fear. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Please discuss your concerns with the team at 425 Dental, and we will help you determine the best sedation option for your needs.

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