Do you feel nervous when it’s time to go to the dentist? You aren’t alone; there are many people who are in the same boat as you. It’s normal to be anxious when getting the dental treatments you need, but there is a way you can make them a bit easier! Sedation dentistry is a great tool to get, but you may wonder how it feels to receive it. Keep reading to learn more about this service and what you can expect.
What Exactly Is Dental Sedation?
Many practices offer sedation during their treatments, as it helps their patients feel more relaxed. It primarily comes in three different ways: nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious, and intravenous (IV). Each one has a varying level of calming effect. However, for all of them, you will stay conscious and be able to follow simple directions and answer questions.
So, What Do the Different Types Feel Like?
With that being said, you may wonder what each form of sedation feels like. Here’s a bit more about each of them:
- Nitrous oxide is a gas that you breathe in through a mask your dentist puts over your nose. You’ll respire just like normal, and you’ll start to feel it after several minutes. Many people say they feel “euphoric,” at ease, or floaty. This option is the mildest out of the three, so it’s often recommended for cleanings and checkups.
- Oral conscious sedation is a step stronger than the option above. It’s typically a medication that you take about an hour before your appointment. You’ll experience a deeper state of relaxation, which patients say they feel a bit heavier with. It’ll take a while for this to clear out of your system, so you may also have some grogginess.
- IV sedation is the most powerful form of these three since it’s given directly into your bloodstream. You may feel so at ease that you tend to doze off on your own! It won’t make you fall asleep, but you might not remember your procedure if you get this one. While it’s being administered, a trained professional will be monitoring your vitals and ensuring that you are safe the entire time.
In fact, during any of these types of sedation, you may go to sleep on your own. They won’t make you, but you’ll be so relaxed that you just might! That way, you can feel calm and confident when you get the treatment you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Zachary Carnow is a proud board-certified periodontist. This means he is an expert when it comes to treating things involving your gums and other supporting structures of your teeth. Dr. Carnow offers a wide range of treatments in his specialty, including sedation dentistry, if you need some help feeling relaxed during your visit. If you want to know if this service is right for you, schedule an appointment or call his office at (214) 619-4990.