Dental Sedation for Adults
A Guide to Overcoming Fear and Anxiety at the Dentist
For many adults, the thought of going to the dentist can be anxiety-inducing. Perhaps you had a negative experience in the past or the drilling sounds and needle pricks make you uneasy. You are not alone, and fortunately, there is a solution to help you feel relaxed and comfortable at the dentist – dental sedation for adults. At Green Dental Care in Parker, Colorado, we offer several types of sedation to help our patients overcome their dental fears and receive the treatment they need for optimal oral health.
Understanding Dental Sedation
Dental sedation involves the use of medication to help you feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures. The three types of sedation we offer include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation (pills), and intravenous (IV) sedation. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask, while oral sedation and IV sedation are taken orally or injected into the bloodstream, respectively.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sedation?
Sedation dentistry is not just for those with severe dental anxiety, but it also benefits patients with dental phobia, a sensitive gag reflex, physical limitations or disabilities that make it difficult to sit still for long periods, or the need for extensive dental work. Dental sedation can also help reduce the number of appointments needed to complete treatment, which is valuable for patients with busy schedules.
The Benefits of Dental Sedation
The primary benefit of dental sedation is that it helps patients feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental procedure. Other benefits include reducing muscle tension, minimizing pain, and making it easier for the dentist to perform the necessary procedures. Sedation dentistry can also help reduce the patient’s post-operative discomfort and enable them to return to their daily activities promptly.
The Safety of Dental Sedation
Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective solution for patients with dental anxiety. Our skilled dental team will thoroughly evaluate your medical history and assess your suitability for sedation. During the procedure, we continuously monitor the patient’s vital signs and adjust the sedation level as needed. Even patients with underlying medical conditions have found dental sedation to be safe and effective.
Post-Sedation Care
After the procedure is complete, patients may experience drowsiness and require some recovery time. Patients are advised not to operate machinery or drive for several hours after sedation. The effects of the sedation can last beyond the appointment, and patients should avoid drinking alcohol or taking sedatives until the effects completely wear off.
There is no need to feel uneasy or nervous about your next dental appointment. Dental sedation is a safe and effective solution for patients with dental anxiety, phobia, or any physical limitations. Green Dental Care in Parker, Colorado offers multiple types of sedation to meet our patients’ needs. Say goodbye to dental anxiety, and say hello to a confident and healthy smile. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment and learn more about dental sedation for adults.