Types of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is a practice that administers medication to a patient prior to a dental procedure. Sedation dentistry helps patients stay calm and relaxed during treatment. If a patient has dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can help the patient get through a procedure.

There are different types of sedation dentistry options, such as:

Inhalation Sedation

Sedation dentistry with nitrous oxide is administered through inhalation. It’s often described as “laughing gas” because it makes you feel euphoric and relaxed. Nitrous oxide can help relieve dental anxiety and even help those with dental phobia.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation medication is easy to take and simple to administer. The medication is taken in pill form about an hour before your appointment. You will not be asleep during the procedure, but you will be comfortable and relaxed.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is the strongest form of sedation dentistry available. Patients who choose IV sedation for their dental procedure will be administered a sedative in pill form. Once they arrive at their dentist’s office, their dentist will administer the pill through the IV. This method of sedation is highly effective, but patients will need to be monitored throughout the entire procedure.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort. The dentist will inject the anesthetic to numb the treatment area. The treatment area is numbed for several hours so patients can undergo multiple treatments during the same appointment.

Local anesthesia doesn’t put you to sleep, but you may feel as if you’ve drifted off. The anesthesia will numb your teeth and gums, but you might still feel pressure during the procedure.

Your dentist will monitor you throughout your treatment to ensure your safety and comfort. Depending on your level of anxiety or discomfort, your dentist may recommend a form of sedation.

Levels of Sedation

There are three levels of sedation recommended for dental patients.

Minimal sedation: This is the lowest level of sedation, recommended for patients that have lower anxiety, don’t need lengthy dental procedures, or need minimal dental work. 

Moderate sedation: Moderate sedation is achieved with anti-anxiety medication and nitrous oxide. 

Deep sedation: With deep sedation, patients may be in deep sleep or completely unconscious for the duration of the procedure. Patients are not usually aware that the procedure is taking place.

Visit Picacho Dental 3325 S Ave 8 E Suite 4, Yuma, AZ 85365 for a consultation to discuss the best sedation dentistry option for you. Make your appointment at (928) 344-3177 right away.