Conquer Your Anxiety With Sedation
Dental anxiety can make it difficult for patients to receive the necessary dental care they need to maintain healthy teeth and gums. The office of Michelle Hedgecock, DDS offers soft blankets, Netflix, noise-canceling headphones, and sedation dentistry as a solution to those who suffer from dental anxiety.
If you suffer from dental anxiety, read on to learn more about sedation dentistry and how it can help you receive the dental care you need.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, involves the use of sedative medications to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are several types of sedation that a dentist can use, depending on the patient’s needs.
Our Dental Sedation Options
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a mild sedative inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. Nitrous oxide is an excellent option for patients who experience mild to moderate dental anxiety. The gas takes effect quickly and produces a calming effect. Patients are awake and able to respond to the dentist’s instructions during the procedure. Nitrous oxide sedation wears off quickly, allowing patients to resume their daily activities shortly after the procedure.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation, also known as oral conscious sedation, involves taking medication in pill form to induce a state of relaxation. The medication used for oral sedation ranges from mild to moderate, depending on the patient’s level of anxiety. The medication is typically taken one hour before the procedure, allowing enough time for the sedative to take effect. Patients remain awake during the procedure but may not remember much of what happened afterward. The sedative may take several hours to wear off, so patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery for the rest of the day.
Experience Stress-Free Dentistry With Sedation
If you suffer from dental anxiety or have a dental procedure that makes you nervous, sedation dentistry may be an excellent option. Contact our Austin office today at (512) 501-2385 to discuss which type of sedation dentistry is right for you. Don’t let fear of the dentist keep you from getting the care you need for a healthy smile.