Major oral procedures can be intimidating for many patients. This intimidation can be drastically compounded if you’re an individual who suffers from dental anxiety. Luckily, you don’t have to experience oral surgery without a little help. Dental sedation is used for many procedures — from wisdom teeth removal to basic visits — to help patients relax and feel comfortable during treatment. Your dentist will determine what kind of dental sedation you need for your procedure. There are a number of different options that address all kinds of patient needs.
Nitrous Oxide Offers a Calming Experience During Treatment
Nitrous oxide is known as “laughing gas” because of the euphoric, calming state that it induces in patients. The relaxing effect that nitrous oxide has on patients can make it easy to schedule and attend dentist appointments for anxious patients. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off almost immediately after the gas mask is removed, making it a mild form of sedation. You’ll be able to go about your normal day after utilizing this form of sedation.
Oral Sedation Is a Moderate Option for Patients
Oral sedation is a stronger sedative option than nitrous oxide, and its effects cause patients to feel sleepy. The sedative can be taken as a pill before you arrive at the dentist’s office so that you feel the effects as your appointment begins. This type of sedation requires a friend or loved one on hand to drive the patient home after treatment because it won’t be safe for you to operate a vehicle afterward.
Will Your Dental Treatment Require IV Sedation?
For significant oral procedures, your dentist will likely use IV sedation. This form of sedation uses anesthetic that will allow you to stay conscious during the procedure, but you will probably remember little-to-nothing of the procedure itself once the sedation has worn off. This option is ideal for patients with a severe phobia of the dentist that need to have a procedure like wisdom teeth removal or tooth extraction completed.
Combining Sedation Methods Can Help Patients
In some cases, combining sedation methods can be useful for patients. Of course, you’ll want to discuss an option like this with your dentist ahead of time. Using nitrous oxide and oral sedation together can create a more powerful effect than using either option alone. This may be ideal for a patient who experiences severe dental anxiety, but does not want to use anesthetic during their procedure.
Learn More About Your Sedation Options at Cerritos Dental Surgery
At Cerritos Dental Surgery, we provide a full range of oral health services that include oral surgery, cosmetic dentistry, and bone grafting. If you’re a patient who struggles with dental anxiety, we have dental sedation options that can help you relax and receive the care you need.
ABOUT YOUR CERRITOS, CA, ORAL SURGEON:
Dr. Shawn Hofkes and the staff at Cerritos Dental Surgery are highly qualified to address complex issues, including those that require oral surgery to correct. To schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Hofkes, contact us today by calling 562-584-4082. We proudly welcome patients of all ages from Cerritos, CA, and all surrounding communities, such as Lakewood, Long Beach, Buena Park, and more.
