Using twilight sleep (Sedation Dentistry) to Prevent Future Dental Problems

Avoiding the dentist can result in the deterioration of your dental health.

When the pain or discomfort becomes unbearable and you have no choice but to seek treatment, chances are you will require extensive restorative work. That means more expenses, more procedures and more time in the dental chair, which only furthers your fear.

Sedation dentistry is sometimes referred to as twilight sleep dentistry, relaxation dentistry or dental sedation.

This allows you to be sedated just enough so that you are unaware of the treatment and are pain free.

So, if you have a fear of dentists, sensitive teeth, hate needles or have a bad gag reflex, ask your dentist about sedation during dentistry procedures.

Nitrous Oxide

Commonly referred to as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is used as a mild sedative to reduce anxiety and allow a level of relaxation during a procedure. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask over the nose. It is administered for the duration of the procedure and is turned off as the procedure is coming to an end. The effects of this method of sedation wear off very quickly.

Oral Sedation

Oral Sedation means that you will be given a prescription for an oral medication prior to you appointment. Taken at the recommended time before your appointment, this medication allows you to fully relax by the time your procedure begins. When receiving oral sedation, a patient must have an escort on the day of the procedure to drive them to and from the office.

IV Sedation

IV Sedation involves a sedative that is administered intravenously, or directly into a vein. It is indicated when deeper sedation is required. This type of sedation can be quickly modified to your state of consciousness and can be continued as long as necessary for the procedure.

IV Sedation requires an empty stomach. Patients receiving this type of sedation will be instructed as to how many hours prior to their surgical procedure they should stop eating or drinking. In addition to this, patients receiving IV sedation will need to have an escort present for the appointment and to be able to drive them home when the appointment is completed.

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