Dental anxiety is often a significant barrier for many patients, keeping them from receiving necessary dental care. This has led to the development of sedation dentistry, a specialized dental service that was designed to ensure patients’ comfort and relaxation during dental procedures. Storts Family Dentistry is proud to offer sedation dentistry in Ardmore and Madill, OK for patients who suffer from dental anxiety or a fear of the dentist. This key service in our dental practice has helped many patients receive the dental care they need. It is proven to be safe for both adults and children.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the administration of sedative medications to dental patients. The purpose of the sedative is to help patients relax during dental procedures. These sedatives can vary in strength, depending on the patient’s anxiety level and the complexity of the dental work. In general, dental sedation will help a patient remain completely calm, allowing the dentist to do all necessary dental work.
Why is Sedation Needed in Dentistry, Especially for Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety, a common issue among our patients, can range from mild unease to severe fear and phobia. For these individuals, even routine check-ups can be daunting and frightening. With the use of dental sedation, your Southern Oklahoma dentist can provide you with a solution to help calm your nerves and receive dental care. This ensures you receive a more comfortable and stress-free experience and the necessary dental care you need.
Other Reasons Patients May Need Sedation
Aside from dental anxiety, patients might require sedation dentistry for other reasons, including:
- Strong Gag Reflexes: Many patients simply have a strong gag reflex. It is very hard for dentists to work on patients with an overactive gag reflex. With the use of dental sedation, the patient will relax completely, essentially turning off the gag reflex and allowing the dentist to perform any type of dental service.
- Sensitive Teeth: If you have overly sensitive teeth, then you may find dental procedures painful. Sedation dentistry can help you remain relaxed and pain-free.
- Complex Procedures: Sedation dentistry can simply help patients who require long, complex, or intricate dental procedures. In these cases, using dental sedation will ensure you are comfortable during the whole appointment and that the dentist is efficient. We often use sedation dentistry for many of our restorative dentistry procedures.
Nitrous Oxide: Using “Laughing Gas” to Make Our Patients Comfortable
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is a common form of dental sedation. This mild sedative is administered through a mask that we will place over your nose. It will remain there for the entire dental appointment, allowing you to breathe in the gas and benefit from the effects. Nitrous oxide induces a state of relaxation and euphoria immediately, allowing patients to remain conscious and responsive during the procedure.
What Is It Like for a Patient to Use Nitrous Oxide?
When inhaling nitrous oxide, patients typically experience a warm, tingling sensation. Some patients report that they feel light-headed. The effects are immediate and wear off rapidly after the mask is removed. This means you can resume normal activities, including driving, immediately after the procedure.
Can Children Use Nitrous Oxide for Dental Procedures?
Yes, nitrous oxide is commonly used by children in dental procedures. It’s a safe and effective way to help children remain calm and cooperative during their dental visits. The mild nature of nitrous oxide makes it particularly suitable for pediatric patients, ensuring they have a positive experience at our dental office from an early age.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
- Reduced Anxiety: Sedation dentistry alleviates anxiety and fear, creating a more relaxed atmosphere for both the patient and the dentist.
- Pain Management: Sedatives minimize discomfort, ensuring patients feel little to no pain during procedures.
- Increased Cooperation: Patients are more cooperative under sedation, allowing dentists to perform complex procedures more effectively.
- Time Efficiency: Sedation allows dentists to complete multiple procedures in one session, reducing the number of visits necessary for extensive work.
Risks and Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry
While sedation dentistry is generally safe, there are some potential risks and side effects. These can include dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Patients must disclose their medical history and medications to the dentist to minimize these risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about dental sedation, we have answers. We will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about dental sedation.
Will I still feel pain with laughing gas?
Yes, you can still feel some pain with laughing gas (nitrous oxide). However, it usually makes you feel more relaxed and less anxious. Laughing gas doesn’t completely block pain like a local anesthetic, so we often use it with other pain control methods. Laughing gas helps you stay calm and more comfortable during dental procedures. However, you might still feel some mild discomfort.
How long does dental nitrous oxide last?
Dental nitrous oxide (laughing gas) has immediate effects during the procedure. It wears off quickly once the gas supply is stopped. The sedation effects typically last only a few minutes after you stop inhaling it. You can usually return to normal activities soon after, as the gas leaves your system rapidly. Moreover, you shouldn’t experience lingering drowsiness.
Does nitrous help with dental anxiety?
Yes, nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas, helps with dental anxiety. It causes relaxation and calmness, easing nervousness or fear during dental procedures. Many patients find that it makes them feel more at ease and less focused on the procedure, allowing for a more comfortable experience overall.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?
Dental insurance usually doesn’t cover sedation dentistry. Most providers consider it a non-essential service. However, there are some exceptions where insurance may provide coverage. If your treatment is necessary due to medical conditions or more complex procedures, they may cover it. However, this varies amongst insurance providers. It’s best to check with their specific insurance plan for details on coverage and explore alternative payment options if needed.
Should I request sedation for tooth extraction?
Whether you should receive sedation for a tooth extraction depends on your comfort level and the complexity of the extraction. Local anesthesia is usually sufficient for most extractions; it numbs the area so you don’t feel pain. However, if you’re particularly anxious or if the extraction is complex, sedation options like nitrous oxide or oral sedation can help you relax during your procedure. We will discuss the best sedation option for your needs to ensure a comfortable experience.
Can I drive myself home after dental sedation?
It depends on the sedation your dentist or oral surgeon used during your dental procedure. If you receive nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you can drive yourself home because the effects wear off quickly. However, if you undergo oral sedation or IV sedation, you should not drive afterward. These types of sedation can impair your coordination and judgment for several hours. In these cases, it’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home.
Learn About Sedation Dentistry in Southern Oklahoma
Sedation dentistry has changed the lives of many of our patients. They no longer have to stress about going to the dentist, and their oral health is finally on track. If you suffer from dental anxiety, contact Storts Family Dentistry to learn more about sedation dentistry in Ardmore and Madill, OK. You can reach us at (580) 260-3410 or you can request an appointment online.