If you’ve been seeing the dentist on a regular basis you’re probably familiar with nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. This easy-to-use option can put you at ease during an appointment, making your time in the chair much easier. You might not realize that nitrous is just the tip of the dental sedation iceberg – we can offer a variety of solutions to help your appointment pass easier!
If you’ve ever felt scared at your dentist appointment or have avoided a visit because of fear then you’ll love the options that sedation dentistry has for you – you could be enjoying a stress-free visit and getting the care you really need! That leaves one big question unanswered, though – “is sedation dentistry a good choice for me?”
At New Albany Implants we believe that the answer to that question is built right in to the asking – if you are wondering about sedation options they’re probably right for you! We offer four distinct levels of sedation that can address the intense phobia of the most anxious patients so we’re sure to have a solution for you!
The Four Levels Of Sedation
It’s important to realize the difference between the four levels of sedation and who they are suitable for. You may not think you need a “sleep” level of sedation, but might later realize that you would have preferred to be unconscious during your procedure! That’s why we want to help you understand the specifics of each level!
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous is the ideal choice for patients who just want to “take the edge off” of their treatment. Nitrous oxide is ideal for short procedures or for patients with mild anxiety. It takes effect quickly and wears off just as fast – you’ll be in and out of your appointment without any delay!
Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a nose piece and makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. You’ll still be awake but will just feel unconcerned about your care!
Oral Conscious Sedation
This is a step up from nitrous in terms of intensity and duration, but you’ll still be awake while under the effects of oral conscious sedation. We’ll prescribe you a single pill before your appointment that you’ll take before you come in. Once the pill has taken effect you’ll feel drowsy and sedated. You might want to fall asleep, and you just way, but you’ll always be responsive. Many patients don’t even remember their procedure when they take oral conscious sedation!
Because this level is more intense and the effects are longer lasting, we’ll require you to bring a friend or family member who can drive you to and from your appointment. Oral conscious sedation is ideal for patients with moderate anxiety, a high gag reflex, and patients who need slightly more involved care.
IV Sedation
Once you get to this level of sedation you’re into a different level – IV sedation is delivered directly by your dentist and is monitored and controlled to get the precise dose right. IV sedation is the ideal option for patients with high anxiety who simply don’t want to be awake for their procedure.
IV sedation is quick, easy, and can result in an amazing dental experience – you’ll just sit down in the chair and wake up when your appointment is over! IV sedation is similar in level to “twilight” sedation at a hospital: you won’t remember anything and you’ll be essentially asleep, but it isn’t a very deep sleep.
General Anesthesia
Reserved for the most phobic patients, general anesthesia is a rare practice at a dentist office, but we’re able to offer it at New Albany Implants! This level is what you would call “being put under.” You’ll be totally asleep for the duration of your procedure, which provides several advantages for patients looking at longer procedures or for those with special needs.
Because we are able to closely monitor your vitals and level of consciousness, we can offer an ideal dental experience. You’ll be able to get complicated, time-intensive procedures done in just one visit, saving you time, money, and stress!
Sedation dentistry might not be for everyone, but if you’ve ever considered it before we can help you find the right recipe for your success. To find out more about our sedation options, call us today at 888-469-3982 or schedule an appointment using our online form! We look forward to providing you with great care without the fear!
