If dental treatments tend to make you uncomfortable or even a bit afraid, you might be a candidate for sedation. Still, if you have never been sedated for a procedure, you may rightly wonder about the road ahead. It is perfectly normal to have questions! You can feel free to ask your care provider during your next appointment. In the meantime, this blog post provides answers to some of the most common questions about sedation dentistry.
What Are the Different Kinds of Dental Sedation?
When you visit your dentist, you might have several options for sedation. Some of the most common provisions include:
- Nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas,” is a mild sedative that you inhale through a mask. It works quickly and allows you to relax while remaining awake.
- Oral conscious sedation involves taking medication by mouth before your appointment. This method provides a deeper level of relaxation, and you may feel drowsy but still be able to respond to your dentist.
- IV sedation, delivered through a vein, produces the most powerful effect. You may enter a dream-like state, and many patients do not remember their procedure afterward.
What Does Dental Sedation Feel Like?
Your experience with dental sedation will depend on the method your dentist uses. If you receive nitrous oxide, you may notice a sense of lightness or mild euphoria as your anxiety fades away. Oral sedation can make you feel very relaxed, somewhat sleepy, and less aware of your surroundings. IV sedation produces a deep level of calm, and you may feel as if time passes quickly. Regardless of which type of sedation is used in your case, you can expect to remain comfortable.
What Are the Most Common Side Effects?
Most patients tolerate dental sedation well, but some side effects can still occur. You might feel groggy or a little dizzy after oral or IV sedation. Some people experience mild nausea, especially with nitrous oxide, but this feeling usually passes quickly. Dry mouth is another common effect, and you may notice some lingering drowsiness for a few hours after your appointment, particularly with oral sedation and IV sedation. Serious complications are very rare when sedation is administered by a trained dental professional.
How Will Sedation Affect the Cost of My Care?
The cost of dental sedation varies based on the type used and length of your procedure. Nitrous oxide tends to be the most affordable option, while oral and IV sedation involve higher costs due to the medications and monitoring required. You should ask your dental office about the expected fees so there are no unpleasant surprises when you go to pay for your care.
Do you have other questions about sedation dentistry? Make a list, and be sure to bring up your concerns the next time you speak to your care provider. Hopefully, sedation will make it much easier to get through your upcoming dental procedures!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Zachary Carnow is a board-certified periodontist in Frisco, TX. He and our team provide a range of advanced services, such as gum disease treatment and dental implant placement. We are able to provide nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation for patients who need extra help to stay comfortable during procedures. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our office at 214-619-4990.