Relax and Enjoy a Healthier Smile with Dental Sedation
While people often joke about being afraid of the dentist, dental anxiety is a real problem impacting millions. In some cases, their dental phobia is so severe that they cannot make it through the most straightforward routine exams. Because of their fear and anxiety, millions of people either never see a dentist or stop going, leading to major medical emergencies down the road. At the Hope Dental Care Centre, Dr. Far, Gang Wang, and the team help patients tackle dental anxiety and dental phobia with treatments such as local anesthesia, and dental oral sedation.
How Can Dental Sedation Help?
If you’re one of the millions suffering from debilitating anxiety or outright fear of going to the dentist, sedation can help you relax to get the dental care you need. This may mean that you are entirely asleep or awake but moderately or highly medicated during a procedure.
We offer three types of sedation depending on the level of anxiety from which you need relief.
Gas
Gas sedation is often composed of oxygen and nitrous oxide, more commonly known as “laughing gas.” This gas is administered via a special mask that covers your nose. Once the gas is issued, you may feel numb and euphoric, and yes, you may even have a few chuckles. Mainly, you should feel relaxed and feel less pain and discomfort from a procedure than you would usually feel. After this type of sedation, you should be able to resume normal activities, such as driving and going to work, with no lingering side effects.
Dental Oral Sedation
For patients with moderate to high anxiety, Dr. Farkhondeh might recommend oral sedation, taken before a procedure in pill form by itself or in combination with laughing gas. This sedation is more potent than nitrous oxide but less heavy than IV deep sedation.
It provides deeper relaxation and does require a patient to arrange for someone to bring them to the office and take them home. A patient will not be able to engage in certain activities until the medication’s effects wear off, usually by the day after a procedure.
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IV Deep sedation
IV deep sedation is the most potent form of sedation, and it involves a fluid sedative being introduced to your bloodstream via an IV needle into a central vein in your arm. A professional licensed anesthesiologist carefully monitors the dosage, and you will likely fall asleep and not even remember the procedure once you wake.
Recovery from this form of sedation can take a few hours to an entire day. You will not be able to drive after the procedure, so arranging for transportation home where you can fully recover is essential.
Stress-Free Oral Health with Dental Sedation Services
Remove the stress, worry, and fear of visiting the dentist’s chair. Call The Hope Dental Care Centre at (343) 803-6333 to arrange your one-on-one consultation with our dentists. Our office is conveniently located at 500 Hazeldean Rd Suite 107, Kanata, ON.
Dental Sedation FAQs
How do I know which type of dental sedation is appropriate for my treatment?
When deciding on the right type of dental sedation, Dr. Far will consider factors like your health history, the complexity of the procedure, and your comfort level. For mild anxiety or discomfort, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is commonly used to help you relax. If you have more significant anxiety, oral sedatives or IV sedation may be more appropriate. Dr. Far will provide guidance on the safest and most effective option for you based on your specific needs.
Can sedation dentistry help if I have a strong gag reflex?
Yes, sedation dentistry is a highly effective option for managing a sensitive gag reflex. By using relaxing sedation options like nitrous oxide or oral sedatives, you can remain relaxed during your procedure, significantly reducing the likelihood of gagging. Dr. Far also uses techniques such as adjusting the position of your head and making sure the treatment area is kept dry to minimize discomfort and make the procedure go smoothly.
What’s the difference between conscious sedation and general anesthesia?
Conscious sedation allows you to stay awake and aware but in a relaxed, comfortable state. You’ll still be able to respond to instructions but likely won’t remember the procedure afterward. In contrast, general anesthesia puts you into a deep sleep where you are completely unconscious. Dr. Far prefers conscious sedation for most procedures as it’s safer and allows for a quicker recovery, while general anesthesia is reserved for more complex surgeries.
What should I expect in terms of recovery after dental sedation?
Recovery time depends on the type of sedation you receive. With nitrous oxide, you can expect to feel normal almost immediately after the procedure, which means you can drive yourself home. However, if oral or IV sedation is used, the effects can last longer, so you’ll need someone to drive you home. After the procedure, Dr. Far will provide instructions on how to care for yourself, ensuring a smooth and comfortable recovery. Any lingering drowsiness from oral or IV sedatives will wear off within a few hours.
Is dental sedation safe for older adults?
Dental sedation is generally safe for older adults, but it requires careful evaluation. Dr. Far will assess your overall health and any pre-existing medical conditions before proceeding with sedation. Your medications, medical history, and any health concerns will be reviewed to ensure that the chosen sedation method is safe and appropriate. The goal is always to ensure comfort while minimizing any potential risks.
Can I request sedation for a routine cleaning or checkup?
If you experience dental anxiety or have a strong aversion to dental procedures, sedation can be offered even for routine cleanings or checkups. Dr. Far understands that every patient’s needs are different, and if the idea of a cleaning makes you uncomfortable, sedation can help you get the care you need in a relaxed state. This ensures that you don’t avoid regular checkups, which are important for maintaining optimal oral health.
Are there other ways to manage dental anxiety besides sedation?
While sedation is an effective option for managing anxiety, there are other strategies that Dr. Far uses to help make your visit more comfortable. These include using calming techniques such as deep breathing exercises, listening to soothing music, or even offering guided visualization to relax during your treatment. Discussing your anxiety before your appointment allows Dr. Far to work with you in creating a more comfortable environment tailored to your needs.
