Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects millions of people around the world. For some individuals, just visiting the dentist can cause fear and panic. This can lead to avoiding necessary dental treatments and ultimately affecting oral health. Fortunately, sedation dentistry in Westport is a solution for individuals who suffer from dental anxiety. Sedation dentistry makes patients feel relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures, making the overall experience more pleasant.
Westport Dental provides our patients with a positive and stress-free dental experience. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry options to help ease dental anxiety and ensure our patients receive the necessary treatments for optimal oral health. The following are some different types of sedation dentistry, what they entail, and what you can expect during your visit.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves medication to help patients feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures. It is especially beneficial for individuals who have dental anxiety, fear of needles, sensitive gag reflexes, or difficulty sitting still for extended periods. Sedation dentistry in Westport can also be helpful for patients undergoing complex procedures that require a longer appointment time.
Our experienced and highly trained professionals will use the appropriate sedation method based on your individual needs and the complexity of the procedure.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedation administered through a small mask over the nose. It is commonly known as “laughing gas” because it can induce a feeling of euphoria and relaxation. Nitrous oxide allows patients to remain conscious and responsive during the procedure, but they may feel drowsy or have tingling sensations in their arms and legs.
One significant benefit of laughing gas is that its effects wear off quickly after removing the mask. Patients can drive home after the procedure and resume their daily activities without lingering effects.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before your dental appointment. The medication is usually in pill form and belongs to the benzodiazepine family, which produces a calming effect on the body. This type of sedation allows patients to remain conscious but highly relaxed.
The dosage of the medication can be adjusted based on the patient’s level of anxiety and the complexity of the procedure. It is essential to have someone drive you home after your appointment, as the effects of oral sedation may last longer than laughing gas.
IV Sedation
IV sedation, also known as conscious sedation, involves administering medication through a vein in your arm. It is the most potent form of sedation dentistry and is typically reserved for complex procedures or patients with severe dental anxiety.
IV sedation allows patients to remain conscious but in a deeply relaxed state. They may not remember much of the procedure, and their vitals will be closely monitored throughout the appointment.
What to Expect
We want to ensure our patients feel comfortable and informed before, during, and after their dental procedures. That’s why we thoroughly explain the sedation process and address any concerns or questions you may have.
Before your appointment, we will review your medical history and discuss which type of sedation would be best for you. During the procedure, our team will monitor your vitals and make sure you are comfortable. After the procedure, we will provide post-operative care instructions and ensure you fully recover before leaving.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry offers various benefits for patients who suffer from dental anxiety or have difficulty with traditional dental procedures. Some of these benefits include:
- Reduced anxiety and stress levels
- Increased comfort during procedures
- Enhanced cooperation with the dentist
- Multiple treatments can be completed in one visit, saving time and reducing the need for multiple appointments.
We are committed to providing our patients a comfortable and relaxed dental experience. Our sedation dentistry options allow us to do just that and ensure our patients receive the necessary treatments for optimal oral health.
Sedation Dentistry in Westport
Dental anxiety should not prevent you from receiving the dental care you need. With sedation dentistry, you can overcome your fears and have a positive experience at the dentist’s office. Westport Dental offers various sedation options to cater to each patient’s needs and ensure comfort and satisfaction.
Don’t let fear or anxiety prevent you from achieving a healthy smile—schedule a consultation with Dr. Sathvik Seshadri or Dr. Shikha Chopra today to learn more about our sedation dentistry options. Our quality services include same-day smile makeovers, TMJ treatments, and cosmetic dentistry in Westport, Massachusetts. Stay on top of your dental health, and visit us for a stress-free and positive dental experience!
