Sedation dentistry is often used to help people who are nervous about going to the dentist. But it can help others, too. Dr. Sal Lotardo of Bella Smiles, with offices in Riverhead, Roslyn, and Nesconset, NY, explains more about how sedation dentistry works and who it can benefit.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures. At Bella Smiles, we offer different types of sedation to fit your needs. One option is nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. It works quickly when you breathe it in through a mask placed over your nose.
Laughing gas helps you feel calm, but you stay awake and alert enough to respond to any questions from the dentist. It also wears off fast, so you can usually drive yourself home after your appointment.
Another option is oral conscious sedation. You take a pill about an hour before your procedure. Oral sedation helps you relax even more deeply than laughing gas. You might fall asleep or not remember much about the procedure. Since it takes longer to wear off, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
How Sedation Helps With Dental Anxiety
Sedation dentistry is commonly used for patients who are scared of the dentist. Dental anxiety can vary from mild discomfort to severe fear that causes people to avoid dental care altogether.
Avoiding regular dental checkups can lead to serious problems in the future. With sedation dentistry, patients with dental anxiety can get the care they need without feeling overwhelmed. Sedation also makes it possible to complete more work in a single visit, so patients don’t need to come back as often. This makes it easier to maintain a healthy smile.
Other Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation is helpful for more than just anxiety. It’s also useful for patients with a strong gag reflex. When the gag reflex kicks in, it can make treatment difficult. Sedation relaxes the body and reduces the gag reflex, making the procedure smoother for both the dentist and the patient.
Sedation can also help people with certain health conditions. Some children and patients with medical issues may not be able to sit still for long periods. Sedation helps them stay relaxed and allows the dentist to provide the necessary care.
Additionally, sedation dentistry is a good option for longer procedures. Complex treatments like multiple extractions or large restoration jobs can take a lot of time. Sedation keeps patients comfortable and calm during these longer visits, making it less likely they’ll feel pain or fatigue.
For patients with special needs, sedation dentistry can also make a big difference. Those who struggle with sensory issues or have trouble communicating may find it easier to tolerate dental visits with the help of sedation. This makes the experience less stressful and allows the dental team to work more effectively.
Another key benefit of sedation is that it lowers your ability to feel pain. When you’re in a relaxed state, you won’t feel as much discomfort, even when the dentist uses local anesthetics. This can lead to a better overall experience and may make you feel more positive about future visits.
Finally, sedation dentistry encourages better oral health. Patients who avoid the dentist because of fear or pain are more likely to come back for regular care if they feel relaxed and comfortable. This leads to healthier teeth and gums in the long run.
Schedule a Sedation Dentistry Consultation
Do you think sedation dentistry could help make your dental visits easier? Call us or make an appointment at our Riverhead, Roslyn, or Nesconset office today.