Visiting the dentist is not everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s fine. But feelings such as anxiousness and apprehension, even fearfulness, shouldn’t stop you from seeking out the care that you need. Fortunately, there are a few options to help reduce your nervousness and keep you calm so that your dentist can successfully treat you.
One method to keep in mind is receiving nitrous oxide sedation near you. For more information about this treatment, get in touch with our dental practice in London today!
The Types of Dental Sedation
Sedation dentistry focuses on keeping patients of all ages comfortable when they come in to receive a dental procedure. There are four main types of sedation that dentists typically use, and those are general anesthesia, intravenous (IV) sedation, oral sedation, which is administered through a pill, and nitrous oxide sedation.
General anesthesia is most often administered in hospital settings or a dental surgical center. You will be unconscious during the entire appointment. An anesthesiologist is a medical professional who specializes in providing this. Dental specialists may do so as well, but they must receive the proper education first.
IV sedation involves the injection of the sedation medication directly into your bloodstream. Your heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure will be constantly monitored. You may feel extremely drowsy or eventually fall asleep while your dentist performs your procedure.
As the name illustrates, the sedation medication is given to you in the form of a pill. You’ll be given this at least an hour before your scheduled appointment. You’ll be awake but fairly groggy.
Lastly, nitrous oxide sedation is also known by its colloquial term “laughing gas.” This method is both safe and reliable. Unlike with general anesthesia, you are not put completely to sleep; rather, you’re kept awake, but you’ll feel extremely comfortable and at ease. When you receive nitrous oxide sedation near you, a mask is placed over your mouth and nose, allowing you to breathe it in. The effects work very quickly, and it wears off quickly as well.
It’s important to keep in mind, however, that you may experience some minor side effects after your appointment due to the gas. This may include:
- You feel sleepier than usual.
- Your arms and legs feel heavy.
- There’s a tingling sensation in your limbs.
- Light-headedness.
To learn more about nitrous oxide sedation, book an appointment with a dentist near you. They’ll be able to explain the treatment in further detail, so you know what to expect. They’ll also be able to tell you if this form of sedation is right for you.
When Do You Need Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Although dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons why your dentist in London may recommend receiving sedation, there are a number of other cases when this may be necessary too:
- You have an overactive gag reflex.
- If you have a severe fear of the dentist.
- You struggle with claustrophobia regarding sitting in the dental chair.
- You’re to receive a lengthy or complex dental procedure.
- A patient has special health needs.
- Your teeth and gums are extremely sensitive.
- You have a fear of needles (therefore nitrous oxide and oral sedation, in particular, would be recommended in this case).
Most people tolerate nitrous oxide sedation just fine, but it’s important that, prior to undergoing any type of treatment, you discuss your health with your doctor. If you’re pregnant, have a history of respiratory illness, or have certain vitamin deficiencies, you may not be able to receive this.
At Maple Ridge Family Dental, we understand that visiting the dentist may mean stepping outside of your comfort zone. But you deserve to receive the oral health care you need regardless, and we’re here to help you with that. Our staff is happy to walk with you on your dental journey.
Call or visit our website today!