What is Sedation Dentistry?
Are you one of the millions who have dental anxiety and avoid the dentist altogether because of it?
Do you need an exam and cleaning, but thinking about the noises and smells makes you sweaty and anxious?
Even worse:
Are you stuck looking at a damaged, unhealthy smile in the mirror because you’d rather stop smiling than step foot in a dentist’s office?
If so:
You’re most likely a candidate for sedation dentistry.
Learn how sedation dentistry has helped people like you overcome their fears and dental care avoidance by offering a way to relax before, during, and after dental appointments.
We at Atlanta Place Dentistry want you to understand sedation dentistry and finally get the dental care you need.
Sit back and relax as we talk about what sedation dentistry is and answer a few commonly asked questions about it.
Let’s start with the basics.
What is sedation dentistry?
The very definition of sedation is “administering a sedative drug to produce a state of calm or sleep.”
Add all things dental care, and voila:
You’ve discovered the basics of sedation dentistry!
You’ll receive medication in one of four methods from a trained and experienced professional to calm your nerves, relax your body, and quiet your dental fears so you can be comfortable at the dentist.
How does sedation dentistry work?
There are four types of sedation a person can receive:
- Nitrous oxide (inhaled)
- Oral sedation (pill)
- IV sedation (bloodstream)
- General anesthesia (combination)
Nitrous oxide
Nicknamed “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is used in various instances. Breathing in nitrous oxide allows one to “relax and forget” while still awake. It’s routinely used during specific procedures but is a viable option for those with a hard time sitting in a dental chair without fear.
Oral sedation
Your dentist prescribes an oral medication you take based on their directions. Every patient has different needs, and every dentist does this differently. You may need to go to the office early to take the medication or take it at home before arriving for your appointment.
For those who have a mild apprehension of the dentist, oral sedation “calms your nerves” while keeping you awake, functioning, and relaxed when you otherwise wouldn’t be.
IV sedation
IV sedation is deeper sedation that will allow you to “rest” comfortably during your dental procedure. While you may lightly sleep, you can easily be woken up, and many patients say they end up not remembering their visit.
General anesthesia
Severe dental phobias and more invasive procedures call for deep sleep sedation called general anesthesia. During general anesthesia, you’re monitored by a highly trained healthcare professional who uses medications to make you sleep deeply during your procedure.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, absolutely.
Dentists like Dr. Priscila Jelsing receive training and education to safely and effectively deliver patient sedation and anesthesia. Depending on the kind of sedation you receive, additional healthcare practitioners may monitor you during your sedation.
Each governing body and organization, like the American Dental Association…Click to open a new window to the ADA website…, has strict training guidelines, policies, and licensure requirements to ensure your safety.
Think of it this way:
Millions of people suffer from dental fears and phobias. These guidelines and requirements ensure your safety while inspiring the trust and confidence you need so you can get the dental care you’re so afraid of.
How much does sedation dentistry cost?
There’s no simple, one-size-fits-all answer to this question.
Yes, it’s an additional cost associated with your dental care.
However:
Your family dentist wants you to get the dental care you need because your oral and overall health are interconnected.
Therefore:
Many sedation dentists offer various flexible financing options to make your dental care affordable.
The best way to find out how much sedation dentistry will cost is to book a consultation with your dentist.
Are you looking for a sedation dentist in Tulsa, OK?
Many people fear the dentist, but you’ll look forward to your appointments with sedation dentistry.
At Atlanta Place Dentistry, we aim to meet you where you and your anxiety are and devise a plan to help you beat your fear. We take the time to get to know your unique needs and customize your treatment plan to optimize your oral health while keeping you calm and stress-free.
Get in touch with us today by scheduling an appointment to learn which sedation dentistry option is right for you, what flexible financial options are available, and discover what the Atlanta Place Dentistry experience is all about.
Or:
- Call us at (918) 743-7444
- Email us at info@YourTulsaDentist.com
We welcome all patients from surrounding locations, including Tulsa, Sand Springs, Jenks, Bixby, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, and Owasso, to brighten your smile today!