Dental treatments are necessary to keep your smile healthy, but not everyone enjoys going to the dentist. At Neville Dental Studio, we accept that many of our patients would rather be somewhere else than in a dental chair, but we strive to make visits as comfortable and expedient as possible. One of the options we offer to make dental treatments less stressful for our patients is sedation dentistry, which is available at our Scottsville, Bowling Green and Horse Cave, KY, clinics.
There are many reasons our patients choose to undergo sedation dentistry. We use sedation methods to relax patients during their treatments which can make it more comfortable for them and easier for our dental team to quickly perform their procedures. Some of the reasons patients may choose to inquire about sedation for their visits include:
- Dental anxiety or phobia
- Invasive treatments or oral surgery
- Patients with disabilities
- Severe or sensitive gag reflex
- Lengthy dental procedures
Sedation can put you into a deeply relaxed state of mind – while we use conscious sedation methods, some people have no memory of the procedure. Before you know it, your treatment is over and you are on your way back home with no stress or anxiety.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For those undergoing complex dental procedures or with high dental anxiety, oral conscious sedation is often recommended. This form of sedation uses an oral medication that is taken before your visit to put you into a relaxed state of mind. If appropriate for you, our dentist will prescribe the medication before your appointment, which you will take on the day of your visit. You will need a friend or family member to drive you to and from your appointment if you have oral conscious sedation performed as you cannot drive with this medication.
Dental Anxiety
Many people have some level of dental anxiety that can impact their comfort when receiving dental care. Whether it is mild discomfort or a deeper fear of dental care, this anxiety can interfere with maintaining a healthy smile. Our sedation options can help those with dental anxiety feel more relaxed and comfortable during their visits, from nitrous oxide for mild anxiety to oral conscious sedation for dental phobia patients.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide has been used for many decades as a safe and effective dental sedation method. Nitrous oxide is a gas that is breathed in through the nose during dental treatments, creating a relaxed and euphoric state. This is a mild sedative that can be used by both children and adults and has the benefit of side effects wearing off quickly once treatment is completed.
IV Sedation
For patients undergoing invasive or lengthy procedures like wisdom teeth removal or dental implant surgery, IV sedation may be recommended. IV sedation results in the patient in a deep sleep while their dental treatments are performed. Patients undergoing IV sedation will require a responsible adult to accompany them to their appointment to ensure they are safely brought home after their visit.
Dental care does not need to be stressful or uncomfortable. With sedation dentistry, you can relax while our dental team takes excellent care of your smile. To learn more about our sedation options or to make an appointment, call our Horse Cave, Bowling Green or Scottsville, KY, offices.
