Sedation Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry Makes Your Treatment Easier
Are you avoiding essential dental care due to fear or anxiety? You’re not alone! Fortunately, sedation dentistry offers a patient-centered approach to alleviate those concerns.
At Worthington Periodontal Specialists, we understand that dental anxiety can make even routine visits stressful. Our sedation dentistry options in Worthington, OH, provide a comfortable, stress-free dental experience, ensuring you receive the care you need without fear or discomfort. Dr. TJ Miller and our expert team offer several types of sedation dentistry to accommodate different needs and levels of anxiety.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Contrary to what some may think, it’s not about being completely unconscious. With varying levels of sedation, patients can achieve a comfortable state ranging from mild relaxation to a sleep-like experience while remaining responsive to our instructions.
Types of Sedation We Offer
To provide truly patient-centered care, we offer two types of sedation, nitrous oxide and oral sedation, to meet your unique needs and preferences.
Nitrous Oxide (Inhalation Sedation)
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a form of sedation that uses a sweet-smelling gas mixed with oxygen. It is inhaled through a mask and induces relaxation. It is safe for most patients and wears off quickly after the procedure with pure oxygen.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative pill about an hour before your dental appointment. This type of sedation induces a more profound level of relaxation than nitrous oxide, and some patients even fall asleep during their procedures. However, you’ll remain easily awakened and able to communicate with your dentist throughout the treatment.
Due to the deeper relaxation achieved with oral medication, you’ll need a responsible adult to accompany you to the appointment and drive you home afterward. While the effects generally wear off within a few hours, you might experience some lingering drowsiness and should avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until fully recovered.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry offers numerous benefits for a wide range of patients, including:
Individuals with dental anxiety or phobia
Sedation helps overcome fear and anxiety associated with dental visits, allowing patients to receive necessary care without undue stress.
Patients with sensitive gag reflexes
Sedation can minimize or eliminate the bad gag reflex, making dental procedures more comfortable for those with difficulty undergoing treatments.
Individuals with special needs
For patients with physical, cognitive, or behavioral needs, sedation can create a calmer and more cooperative environment, ensuring appropriate dental care.
Some patients find it challenging to undergo lengthy procedures, such as dental implants. Oral sedation makes it easier to get the treatment they need.
What to Expect During Sedation
Your dental treatment will be carefully monitored to ensure safety and comfort. Depending on the level of sedation, you may feel drowsy but still able to respond, or you may have little memory of the procedure. Dr. Miller also uses a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area, ensuring a painless experience.
Get the Treatment Needed to Improve Your Oral Health
Sedation dentistry offers a comfortable solution for those with dental anxiety or extensive treatments. By providing various options to Worthington, OH, patients, we ensure a stress-free experience.
If dental anxiety keeps you from getting necessary dental work, our sedation dentistry options can help. Call Worthington Periodontal Specialists at 614-885-5525 to schedule a consultation with Dr. TJ Miller and learn more about how we can make your next visit stress-free.