At our office, our top priority is our patients’ comfort. We want your experience in our office to be something positive. For some patients, it can be hard to get the dental care they need. By making sedation dentistry one of our general dentistry offerings, we hope all patients can comfortably get the care they need.
Sedation Dentistry in Tyler, TX
As with other dental services, sedation dentistry is unique for every patient. We start with a consultation in our office. We review your medical history, as some patients can’t receive sedation if they have certain conditions or are on certain medications. In addition, we want to know the issues you have at the dentist office. Do you have dental anxiety, or a movement disorder that may inhibit safe care? Tell us the severity and how you normally react.
We also consider what procedures you need done and if there are multiple. This also factors into our opinion.
Dental Sedation Types
There are various different types of sedation available. The most mild is nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas. You breathe it in through a mask or cannula throughout your procedure. It takes effect and dissipates quickly, making it the only option where we allow you to drive to and from your appointment. It only takes a few breaths before it takes effect, providing a euphoric and relaxed feeling.
Since it’s so mild, it’s a good option for children, too. It’s ideal for patients with mild anxiety. You aren’t put to sleep, and will be aware of what’s happening around you, but without having a care in the world.
Oral conscious sedation provides a stronger sedative effect. We prescribe it in pill form and you take it about an hour before your appointment. With deeper sedation, you’ll require a ride to and from your appointment. The medication is typically a sedative or anxiety medicine. You may fall asleep during the procedure or have periods of it that you don’t remember.
The deepest form of dental sedation is through an IV. The sedation medication is administered directly to the bloodstream. We monitor your condition throughout the procedure and ensure you’re getting the right dose and your vitals are strong. Usually, we save this for multiple extensive procedures or patients with severe anxiety. You won’t remember the procedure, though you’re technically still conscious.
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The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Typically, the chief use of dental sedation is for patients that have a fear of the dentist. Dental anxiety occurs on a spectrum. Some patients are only triggered by certain tools or sounds, while others are unable to even walk into the office. If you aren’t getting regular dental care, you’re more likely to need intensive care in the future. This means longer, more invasive treatment options.
Sedation allows patients to get their regular care, so that they don’t need intensive care in the future. If you do require multiple procedures, sedation is ideal for that, too. It allows patients to relax and sit in the chair longer, so the dentist can get more work done. When the patient is relaxed, the dentist can perform more quickly, requiring fewer visits to the dentist office.
It’s ideal for patients that suffer from movement disorders or children that are unable to sit still for long stretches of time. Dentistry requires precise care and sharp tools. Involuntary movements put the soft tissues in the mouth in danger, and also make it harder for the dentist to work. This is true, too, of patients that have severe gag reflexes. Sedation relaxes the reflex, making it more comfortable for the patient.
Not only does sedation reduce anxiety, but it’s also effective at pain management. It minimizes the chances of significant discomfort or pain. The relaxation effect also dulls the pain responses, making care more comfortable.
Getting Ready for Your Sedation Dental Visit
Getting prepared ahead of time will help your sedation appointment go smoothly. If you’re having oral or IV sedation, you shouldn’t eat or drink for 6-8 hours before your visit to avoid feeling sick. You’ll need to have a responsible adult drive you home because the sedation medicine can make you drowsy for several hours afterward. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and skip coffee and alcohol for a full day before your appointment since they can affect how the sedation works.
Be sure to tell your dentist about any health changes or medications you’re taking – even vitamins or pain relievers you bought at the store. We’ll go over special instructions with you during your consultation to make sure you’re completely ready and comfortable.
The Truth About Sedation Dentistry
Many people avoid sedation because of things they’ve heard that aren’t true. Some think it’s only for people who are extremely afraid of the dentist, but it actually helps with many issues like strong gag reflexes, sensitive teeth, or long procedures. Others worry IV sedation isn’t safe, but dentists who offer it are specially trained and monitor you closely the whole time.
You might think sedation means you’ll be completely knocked out, but most types just help you feel very relaxed while staying awake (we don’t use general anesthesia for regular dental work). Knowing the facts helps you choose what’s right for your needs.
After Your Sedation Appointment
How you feel afterward depends on what type of sedation you had. The laughing gas (nitrous oxide) wears off quickly, but pill sedation might make you sleepy for several hours. Plan to take it easy at home and don’t do anything active. Drink plenty of water, but wait a day before having big meals or alcohol.
It’s normal to feel a little foggy or not remember much about the procedure. We’ll give you clear instructions to take home, and contact information if you have any concerns. Most people feel completely back to normal by the next day. Plus they got their dental work done without any stress or worry.
The key is following all the instructions we give you. That way you’ll stay comfortable and safe while the medicine wears off completely. If anything seems unusual or you have questions, we’re always here to help.
Schedule a worry-free dental exam today. Call us at 903-623-8317 or schedule an appointment online anytime.