Sedation Dentistry Specialist

Can I be sedated during my dental procedure?

Many people are nervous about undergoing dental procedures. Dental anxiety can force you to cancel appointments, skip essential screenings, and ignore serious dental concerns. Over time, avoiding the dentist can have serious consequences.

But at Hometown Family Dental Centers, you can receive dental care in a comfortable, reassuring setting. Sedation is always available for patients who are anxious about their procedure.

Sedation dentistry helps you relax during your time in the dentist's chair. It can also relieve pain, prevent anxiety, and allow your dentist to provide more in-depth care. Several different types of sedation are available at Hometown Family Dental Centers. Your provider can help you select the kind that's right for you.

Is sedation safe?

When administered by a qualified medical professional, sedation is very safe. Sedation is often suitable for both adults and children. But before providing sedation, your dentist reviews your medical history to make sure that you're a good candidate for sedation.

Patients with certain medical conditions may not be eligible for all types of sedation. Some prescription medications can also interact with sedation. Your dentist carefully screens you for possible drug interactions before administering sedation.

During your treatment, the team at Hometown Family Dental Centers monitors your well-being. After the procedure is complete, you remain in the office until the sedation has worn off. With certain types of sedation, you may need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home. Your dentist will let you know when it's safe to resume driving.

What kind of sedation is available?

Many different types of sedation can help you relax during dental procedures. Available sedatives may include:

• Nitrous oxide
• Oral sedation
• IV sedation

Oral sedatives are usually taken in pill form shortly before your scheduled appointment. Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is administered through a gas mask in your dentist’s office. You may also receive IV sedation. This type of sedation is administered through a needle that’s placed in your arm. All three types of sedation can be safely used on children.

How long does it take to recover from sedation?

Each type of sedation is different. The team at Hometown Family Dental Centers will let you know how long your sedation will last. Most types of sedation wear off shortly after the procedure. But the effects can sometimes last for several hours.

If you're planning to undergo sedation, your dentist will explain when it's safe to resume your normal activities. Most people who undergo sedation need to stay home from school or work for the rest of the day.

Ready to learn more about sedation? Call Hometown Family Dental Centers today or schedule an appointment online.