Does the thought of sitting in a dental chair make you seize up in fear? Does the idea of people poking around in your mouth give you severe anxiety? If so, you’re not alone. Nearly half of all Americans have avoided the dentist’s office out of fear. However, your sedation dentist in Denton offers two ways for you to relax in the dental chair and get the treatment you need worry-free. Keep reading to learn more.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses drugs to help nervous patients relax so they can receive the dental treatment that they need. Your sedation dentist in Denton offers two types of sedation:

• Nitrous oxide sedation: Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide keeps you conscious but relaxed enough to not feel anxious about any dental work you may need. You will breathe nitrous oxide through a mask worn over your nose.
• Oral conscious sedation: If you have severe dental anxiety, your dentist might recommend oral conscious sedation. Your dentist will prescribe a pill to take about an hour before your appointment. You’ll need a ride to and from the office. During your procedure, you’ll be awake enough to respond to requests from the dental team, but you probably won’t remember anything that happened. The effects of the pill should last about 12 hours, so you will have to take the day off work or class.

When Is Sedation Dentistry in Denton Used?

Patients who are good candidates for sedation dentistry include people who:

• Have sensitive teeth
• Can’t sit still in the dental chair
• Have special needs
• Have a sensitive gag reflex
• Need a large amount of dental work completed at once
• Have a low tolerance for pain

Does Sedation Dentistry Have Any Side Effects?

Sedation dentistry should be safe for most patients. However, you should inform your dentist of any medications or medical conditions you have that could interfere with the sedation, just to be on the safe side. Your dentist may need to adjust your dosage accordingly. If you receive too much nitrous oxide, it could result in:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Increased sleepiness
• Shivering or excessive sweating

For most patients, the relaxed mood brought on by nitrous oxide should fade after about 15 minutes, allowing you to drive yourself back to work or home. The main side effect of oral conscious sedation is simply falling asleep, but your dental team should be able to wake you up as needed.

Thanks to sedation dentistry, dental anxiety can become a thing of the past. If you are nervous about your next appointment, ask your dentist if they can help you relax with sedation.

About the Author

Dr. Ted Dunson received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Baylor College of Dentistry, one of the top four dental institutions worldwide. He has been providing comprehensive and relaxing dental care to the Denton, TX community since 1999. To receive the dental care you need completely stress-free, contact Dr. Dunson at (940)-566-4942.