Things to Know About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is a way for patients to receive the dental care they need while feeling relaxed. Patients can receive a variety of sedation options, including inhaled minimal sedation (laughing gas), oral sedation (pill), or IV sedation (injected medication).

Levels of Sedation

There are several different levels of sedation, from mild to deep. The deeper the sedation, the more sedated a patient becomes.

The mildest level of sedation is nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. Nitrous oxide is a colorless and odorless gas. The patient inhales it through a nose mask. The patient will feel a pleasurable feeling throughout their body while remaining awake and able to follow commands.

The next level of sedation is oral sedation, which is a pill that is given to the patient. The pill induces a state of relaxation and a moderate level of sedation. The patient will feel groggy and relaxed. They will likely not remember the procedure.

The next level of sedation is IV sedation. The patient receives an IV sedative to induce a state of deep sedation. The patient will be completely unconscious throughout the procedure and will not feel any pain. 

What Can Sedation Dentistry Treat?

Sedation dentistry isn’t meant to replace regular dental care, but it can help you overcome fear and anxiety in order to better receive care. Some sedation dentistry patients may have complex dental needs. They may have dental anxiety or fear, which means they may put off dental care until they absolutely cannot avoid it any longer. Sometimes, even simple dental cleanings can cause people anxiety.

Sedation dentistry can be used to ease a patient’s anxiety about dental care in general. Patients who have dental anxiety may avoid routine dental care, which can lead to more invasive and painful procedures. They may have avoided dental care for years, leading to gum disease and tooth decay.

Preparing for Sedation Dentistry

Before your appointment, discuss sedation dentistry with your cosmetic dentist. They’ll go over your health history, medications, and dental history and conduct a physical exam as well as lab work. Sedation dentistry is not appropriate if you have certain medical conditions.

Wish to learn more about our sedation dentistry options? Schedule an appointment with us at Silver Summit Dental by calling us at (801) 542-0998, or visit our office at 5734 13400 S, Herriman, UT, 84096, between Monday to Friday for a consultation.