Do you get nervous about going to the dentist? Don’t wait until you have a bad toothache to schedule an appointment. Modern dentistry uses many types of anesthetics and pain relief to make sure treatments are pain-free.
If your fear comes from worrying about sitting still or being afraid of dental procedures, you might need more than just local anesthesia to feel calm and relaxed during your visit. Sedation dentistry helps people with dental anxiety feel more at ease during treatment. Our caring dentists will make sure you feel completely relaxed and comfortable with sedation dentistry in San Antonio, TX. We use sedation to help our patients have a better experience with our cosmetic, restorative, and general dental treatments.
Sedation Dentistry in San Antonio, TX
Our dentists can offer different types of dental sedation. When you visit our dentist for a full dental check-up, we’ll consider your oral health needs and medical history to find the right sedation for you. Here are the types of sedation our dentists use:
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the most common form of sedation in dentistry. A mask that fits over your nose delivers the gas. You’ll stay relaxed and can still talk to the dentist or hygienist during the procedure. You’re aware of what’s happening but feel calm and happy.
Nitrous oxide works quickly and wears off fast, so you can drive yourself to and from your appointment. It’s mild and young patients can even use it.
Oral Sedation
This mild sedation can be used alone or with nitrous oxide. Oral sedation involves taking a pill that helps you feel safe, comfortable, and relaxed without anxiety. You won’t fall asleep, but you may feel very calm or even doze off.
During your consultation, the dentist will talk about which oral medication is best for you, based on how long your appointment is, the procedures you need, and your medical history. You’ll need a ride to and from your appointment since the effects last for several hours.
IV Sedation
IV sedation works fast because the sedative is delivered directly into your bloodstream through a needle. Within seconds, you’ll feel relaxed and comfortable. We will monitor your vitals to make sure you’re safe.
You might not be completely asleep, but it’s common to drift off and not remember the procedure. We usually recommend IV sedation for longer procedures or for patients with severe dental anxiety.
Who Benefits From Sedation Dentistry?
Dental sedation is most commonly used for patients who have dental fear or anxiety. Some people might only be scared of certain tools or procedures, while others are afraid to even come to the office. If they’ve avoided the dentist for a long time, they may develop serious dental problems.
Sedation helps them relax enough to come in for care, which can prevent the need for more intense treatments. It also helps patients stay calm during longer procedures.
But sedation isn’t just for those with dental anxiety. If you have a movement disorder or if a child needs a complex procedure, it can be hard to sit still for the entire time. Dentistry involves sharp tools and precise work, so involuntary movements can make things risky. Sedation helps relax the body, making it safer for the patient to get treatment.
The same applies to patients with a strong gag reflex. A gag reflex can make it difficult for the dentist to work and is very uncomfortable for the patient. It might even cause vomiting if triggered too much. Sedation calms these reflexes, making the experience better for both the patient and the dentist.
Sedation is also great for long procedures or if you need multiple treatments at once. Sitting in a chair for hours can be tough for anyone. Sedation helps you stay relaxed and comfortable, so you’re not constantly shifting around during long appointments.
Receive Comfortable Care at Advanced Dental Associates
At Advanced Dental Associates, we want to make sure your dental care is as comfortable as possible. Taking care of your dental health is important for your overall well-being, so don’t wait to address any issues.
Visit our dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. Advanced Dental Associates and our team want to ensure you feel safe and comfortable in the dentist’s chair. Call us at 210-361-6847 to book an appointment today.