Did you know that an estimated 20% of people who experience anxiety around dental appointments are so afraid that they avoid scheduling visits? To make matters worse, approximately 9% to 15% have a fear so intense that they’ve never seen a dentist.
Fortunately, many providers offer medications, like nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your appointment. If you’re unsure which method is right for you, continue reading to learn more about them both!
What is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is inhaled through a breathing mask that’s placed over your nose while your dentist works. The drug takes effect almost immediately and induces a sense of well-being or euphoria, and you might even notice a tingling or tickling sensation in your arms and legs. However, the impact doesn’t last long; it fades moments after you stop inhaling it into your lungs.
This medication works by displacing the air in your lungs to reduce the amount of oxygen going to your brain, which slows your nervous system to increase your body’s pain threshold. Plus, of all the potential sedatives, this option is considered the safest for the largest amount of people and is often offered to patients of all ages.
What is Oral Conscious Sedation?
This medication is prescribed as a pill with instructions for you to take it before you arrive for your scheduled visit. That way, the drug kicks in by the time they start your procedure. Popular medications offered include benzodiazepines like midazolam, diazepam, or triazolam, which reduce anxiety and your body’s sensitivity to external stimuli.
Most patients report feeling a deep sense of relaxation, and you might even drift off, though the medication is not intended to put you to sleep. Typically, you’ll be awake and able to respond to your dentist’s questions and instructions, but you’re not likely to remember the details afterward. This often last 4 to 6 hours before the impact starts to fade, so you’ll likely want to rest for the remainder of the day after your appointment.
Which Option is Best for Me?
No two situations are the same, and the type of sedation that works best for you depends on your individual circumstances. For example, if you’re undergoing a longer or more complex procedure, you might opt for oral conscious sedation because its effects are usually considered stronger than those of laughing gas. Meanwhile, if you prefer a drug that leaves your system quickly, nitrous oxide might be the better choice for you.
The best way to decide on an appropriate medication is to consult your dentist so they can make a recommendation based on your unique needs.
About the Practice
At Beck Dental Care of Columbia, patients of all ages benefit from a team of dentists who provide a comprehensive menu of services at one convenient location. They prioritize patient care by getting to know your unique dental goals and concerns; then, they customize treatment plans to meet your needs. They understand that many people have dental anxiety and offer multiple medications, including nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, to help you feel comfortable and calm during your procedures. You can request an appointment on the website or call (931) 388-8452.