Imagine undergoing a complex dental procedure such as a root canal, wisdom teeth extraction, or other form of oral surgery, and having little to no recollection of the time it took, the pain, the noise, or the discomfort you were expecting. We are pleased to offer our patients the option of comfortable, safe, and effective sedation dentistry to make dental treatments a stress-free experience. Patients who benefit from sedation dentistry often have:
- A fear or elevated level of anxiety associated with dental visits
- A severe gag reflex that makes dental procedures challenging
- Large treatment plans requiring extended hours to complete
- Difficulty sitting still for long periods
- Difficulty getting (and staying) numb from anesthetics
WHAT IS SEDATION DENTISTRY? "Sedation dentistry" encompasses various techniques that can safely and comfortably reduce anxiety, create amnesia, and eliminate a gag reflex in patients during dental care. The benefits of sedation dentistry include:
- No memory of undergoing the procedure
- No sense of time while under sedation
- No awareness of smells or sounds
- No fear or anxiety during treatment
- A relaxed and stress-free dental experience
Patients who have experienced a dental procedure using sedation dentistry often describe it as a simple, relaxing way to undergo dentistry.
I AM NERVOUS ABOUT BEING UNCONSCIOUS. WHAT LEVELS OF SEDATION ARE AVAILABLE TO ME? At our practice, there's no need to be nervous about undergoing sedation dentistry. We are licensed by the American Dental Association, and you'll find that we maintain a respectful and professional environment at all times.
Sedation dentistry is closely regulated by law, and there are three sedative states at which your dentist can administer treatment: mild sedation, moderate sedation, and deep sedation.
- Minimal Sedation (Anxiolysis): This is the lightest form of sedation and is often used for patients with mild anxiety, shorter procedures, or less complex situations. It can be achieved using an oral sedative (like Halcion) and/or Nitrous oxide (laughing gas). The goal is to relax the patient or induce drowsiness while they remain awake during the dental care. Recovery from anxiolysis sedation is usually quick, typically within a few hours after the procedure is complete.
- Moderate Sedation (Conscious Sedation): This technique is used for patients with moderate dental anxiety, longer appointments, or more complex procedures. Conscious sedation is often achieved through light IV sedation, where patients remain awake but in a deep state of relaxation. For conscious sedation, it's essential to have someone accompany you to and from appointments, as the effects can take several hours to wear off, and driving afterward is unsafe.
HOW ARE SEDATIVES ADMINISTERED? Sedatives can be administered through various methods:
- Inhalation (Nitrous Oxide): Also known as laughing gas, this is a commonly used method for easing mild to moderate anxiety. When used alone, the recovery is quick, allowing you to resume your normal activities immediately after the appointment.
- Oral Sedation: A prevalent technique, oral sedation involves taking a prescription pill about an hour before your dental appointment. This pill induces a more relaxed state of mind and results in limited memory of the dental procedure.
- IV Sedation: Administered intravenously, IV sedation is often combined with oral sedation for maximum relaxation. It provides the illusion of being "asleep" during the procedure, even though you are conscious and breathing on your own. This is the most effective sedation technique offered in our practice, and patients typically have no memory of their appointment.
We take pride in being one of the few general dentists in this area licensed to provide moderate sedation. Dr. Nohr is an experienced providers of sedation dentistry, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the dental procedure.
If you are interested in exploring sedation dentistry options or have any questions, please contact our practice to schedule a consultation. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to discuss the different sedation dentistry methods available and help you find the best approach for your individual needs. Your comfort and relaxation are our top priorities, ensuring a positive and stress-free dental experience
