Sedation is safe for both children and adults. It’s even safe for babies, as sedatives help to relax them and allow them to receive necessary dental treatment. At Freeman Dental, we use sedation dentistry to allow patients to receive necessary dental treatment without discomfort. Patients who avoid going to the dentist due to fear or anxiety can receive the care they need.

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a convenient way to help you relax. It involves medication taken orally before the appointment. You will remain awake but won’t remember much from the appointment. Oral sedation is typically used for shorter procedures and is also comfortable for most patients.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is often used as a mild sedative during dental procedures. It is administered through a small mask placed over the patient’s nose and inhaled until they feel comfortable. Nitrous oxide is one of the safest sedatives, and its effects on the body are minimal.

Intravenous Sedation

Sedation dentistry makes it possible for patients to receive dental treatments while feeling completely relaxed and comfortable. Sedation dentistry achieves this using either oral medication or IV sedation, which is administered intravenously. The dentist can walk you through all the different sedation options and help you determine which one would be best for your circumstances.

General Anesthesia

The goal of anesthesia is to allow the patient to feel comfortable and at ease during dental treatment. If a patient is anxious or afraid during a procedure, they may not be able to receive proper dental care. General anesthesia is the deepest form of sedation used in dentistry and renders the patient unconscious throughout the entire procedure. General anesthesia is administered through an intravenous drip and is monitored by an anesthesiologist. 

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Minimal Anxiety

Patients who choose sedation dentistry report minimal anxiety during the procedure, and any anxiety they have beforehand usually fades quickly.

No Recollection of Treatment

If you experience significant anxiety or a strong gag reflex during a dental procedure, sedation dentistry may make it possible for you to undergo the procedure without experiencing any anxiety or discomfort. The medication used for sedation dentistry leaves you feeling relaxed and unaware of the treatment occurring.

No Fear or Discomfort

Patients who undergo sedation dentistry can rest assured they will not experience any fear or discomfort. The sedative medications dentists give patients will help them feel calm and relaxed. 

Reduced Gag Reflex

Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to eliminate your gag reflex. Many patients who receive sedation dentistry find that their gag reflex is almost eliminated, which alleviates the anxiety that is often associated with receiving dental treatment.

To learn more about the advantages of sedation dentistry, contact Freeman Dental at (270) 247-1966 for our Mayfield location.