Sedation Dentistry

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Sedation Dentistry

Dental anxiety is a very real condition for many people that often results in avoidance of the dentist, even for simple teeth cleanings and even when a person has pain, problems, or an obvious emergency. At Ingleside Family Dental in Ladson, SC, we offer sedation dentistry so our patients can find calm when at the dentist and get the dental care they need.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

The goal with sedation dentistry is to create a comfortable, relaxing environment for any patient, whether you have a phobia about being at the dentist, need multiple procedures at once, or experience a serious dental emergency.

There are three types of sedation dentistry, all available at Ingleside Family Dental. They can be used along with numbing treatments to create physical and mental relaxation.

Laughing gas. Administered through a tiny mask placed over the nose during the entire treatment, laughing gas delivers a calming effect usually within a minute. Patients who choose laughing gas are usually conscious but relaxed through the procedure. When the mask is removed, the gas wears off quickly and there are typically no side effects.
Oral sedation. Oral conscious sedation is a small pill taken just before a dental visit. You must be driven to and from your appointment. This type of oral sedation makes you drowsy but keeps you alert throughout treatment. Fear and anxiety fade. Some people have no recollection of getting dental work done after oral sedation.
IV sedation. The deepest form of sedation, IV sedation is a sedative medication injected directly into a vein. Patients go into a light sleep while getting dental work done but are closely monitored throughout their procedure for safety and comfort. IV sedation is often the right choice for patients who require multiple procedures at once, need invasive work like extractions or dental implants, or have a deep fear of the dentist.

Causes of Dental Anxiety

There are two main causes of dental anxiety, and both can lead to extreme fear about going to the dentist for any reason. Sedation dentistry makes it possible to find some peace.

Past experiences. Whether it was the sound of the dental drill or an encounter with an unfriendly dental professional, anything negative that happens regarding oral health can be difficult to shake. Past experiences cloud every dental situation in the future.
Preconceptions. Many children have preconceived notions about the dentist and what to expect from their visit. Too much information can be scary and too little can be problematic. Adults too have preconceptions, especially when they need a certain type of dental care and work themselves up about how the experience will proceed.

Have honest conversations with your dentist ahead of a procedure. Your dentist appreciates the opportunity to put your mind at ease and explain the many comfort measures available to simplify any procedure, including sedation dentistry.

Get Sedation Dentistry in Ladson, SC

The most important thing to know about sedation dentistry is that these options are available to make your dental care possible, no matter what kind of work you need done. Even if you have spent years away from the dentist or believe you have problems that can’t be helped, know that everything can be corrected – and you can be completely relaxed when it happens.

Comfort and calm occurs when patients say yes to sedation dentistry. Whether you choose laughing gas, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, you will be calm and worry free during your treatment. This small effort can make a world of difference in your experience at the dentist and your feelings about dental care.

Get support for all your oral health needs and concerns from Ingleside Family Dental in Ladson, South Carolina. Contact us today to talk about sedation dentistry.