Sedation Dentistry

If the idea of having your teeth cleaned sends you into a panic and you would rather endure the pain of a toothache than visit a dentist, you are certainly not alone. Many people are so frightened of going to the dentist that they avoid it like the plague.

For people who are phobic about going to the dentist, sedation dentistry could be an excellent solution for relieving some of the anxiety. Sedation can be used to ease the anxiety of practically any dental procedure, whether it’s a simple cleaning or an invasive procedure.

Sedation dentistry utilizes certain types of medications to assist patients in relaxing. While sedation dentistry is sometimes also known as sleep dentistry, patients are typically awake throughout the entire procedure, unless placed under general anesthesia.

• Minimal sedation — In this type of sedation, you are completely awake, but feel relaxed.
• Moderation sedation — This form of sedation is also known as conscious sedation. You likely will not remember much of the procedure.
• Deep sedation — In this form of sedation, you remain on the edge of consciousness, but the dentist can wake you.

•  Inhaled minimal sedation — With this type of sedation, you will breathe noxious oxide, also referred to as laughing  gas. You should be able to drive yourself home following this type of sedation.
• Oral sedation — Ranging from minimal to moderate, oral sedation may make you feel groggy, but usually all that is necessary to wake you is a gentle shake.
• Deep sedation — Also referred to as general anesthesia, deep sedation may allow you to be either nearly unconscious or  completely unconscious.

“Contact us today to learn more about the various types of sedation dentistry offered and how we can help make your next visit to the dentist a more pleasant experience.”

Dr. Thien Kim Pham, DDS
Antoine Office