Sedation treatments have allowed millions of patients to receive necessary oral health care despite mild to severe dental anxiety. However, you may not be aware of how these treatments can help many people who aren’t nervous about seeing their dentist. Here’s a brief guide to how dental sedation may be able to help you enjoy easier and more effective dental appointments.
Nitrous Oxide Can Be an Effective Anesthetic for Restorative Procedures
Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is widely known for being used by dentists to help patients remain comfortable during intensive restorative procedures such as fillings. This colorless, odorless gas starts working briefly after the patient begins receiving it, and it reduces the sensation of discomfort while creating a sense of calm.
The gas will be eliminated from the body within minutes after the treatment is over, and patients are typically ready to drive themselves home shortly afterward. Side effects are mild and incredibly rare, making it a great treatment for almost anyone. However, it may not be a good choice for pregnant women, those allergic to nitrous oxide, or those with nasal congestion.
Dental Sedation Can Suppress an Oversensitive Gag Reflex
The gag reflex plays a key role in keeping the airway free of obstruction, and it has saved countless lives from choking. However, an oversensitive gag reflex can make it difficult for some patients to receive necessary dental care. Sedation treatments such as nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation can lower the reflex’s action threshold so that your dentist can address your oral health needs more quickly and efficiently.
Dental Sedation Can Make Longer Procedures Easier
In some cases, a patient may need to receive several dental treatments during a single appointment. However, it can be quite tedious and uncomfortable to have to keep your mouth open for several hours. Sedation treatments can put you in a relaxed state so that you can sit comfortably while receiving restorative work, cosmetic procedures, or oral surgery.
Sedation dentistry has allowed millions of people to comfortably achieve better oral health. After reviewing your medical history and your current list of medications, your dentist will be able to determine if sedation can be right for you.
About the Practice
Beck Dental Care offers the finest oral health services in Columbia. Led by Drs. Matthew Hart, Kyle Williams, and Philip Matthews, the staff treats each patient with genuine concern, exemplary courtesy, and outstanding customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry as well as sedation treatments. To learn more about how dental sedation may be able to help you, contact the office online or dial (931) 388-8452.