Some individuals suffer from dental anxiety or “dental phobia”, a syndrome in which visiting the dentist can be a particularly terrifying ordeal. The unfortunate reality is that dental anxiety and oral health are associated. It also prevents some people from visiting the dentist on a regular basis, and from undergoing necessary dental procedures. We understand dental anxiety, which is why it is our top priority to put you at ease at LG Dental Centre. We offer compassionate and caring support and various dental sedation management options for you to choose from. To learn more about your options, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
We offer our patients nitrous oxide sedation, aka laughing gas, as a remedy for dental anxiety and fear. This colourless and odourless gas provides nervous patients with a safe and effective sedation option to put their minds at ease during a variety of dental procedures, like dental fillings, root canal therapy, and more! A small mask is placed over the nose to dispense the laughing gas. As you begin to inhale, you’ll feel calm, euphoric and relaxed, yet alert. When the mask is removed, the effects of the laughing gas will subside immediately, allowing you to drive home safely without the need for a chauffeur.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For this sedation method, your dentist will write you a prescription. The pill you receive will need to be taken about an hour before the procedure. The pill will make you feel completely relaxed and drowsy, but you will still be cognizant of what is transpiring. You will be able to follow the instructions of your dental team and answer necessary questions. This method is a great option for patients with higher levels of anxiety surrounding the dental office. You likely won’t remember much of your dental visit, and the effects will take some time to subside, so it’s important that you arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home. By the next day, you should feel completely back to normal.
IV Sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation involves the administering of an anti-anxiety medication through the bloodstream during your treatment. This medication will not put you to sleep, but you will feel incredibly relaxed. Just like oral conscious sedation, you will still be able to respond to your dentist’s questions. This method is ideal for patients who have severe dental phobia and/or require more extensive dental work. You likely won’t remember much of your treatment and will need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home.
Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry may be a good option for you if you struggle with any of the following:
- Dental Anxiety: If you have dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can help you feel more relaxed throughout your treatment.
- Increased Sensitivity: For patients who have teeth or gums that are particularly sensitive, sedation can help to lessen this.
- Overactive Gag Reflex: If smells, tastes, or the presence of dental tools in your mouth make you gag easily, sedation can reduce this. This allows you to feel more comfortable and helps your dentist work faster and more efficiently.
- Long Procedure: Even if you feel relaxed at the dentist, if you have a long, thorough procedure coming up, sedation can help to make the experience more tolerable.