Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax for a better dental care experience. Sedation dentistry can even help patients with severe dental anxiety.
Sedation dentistry offers many benefits to meet your individual needs. Sedation allows your body to relax more completely. This increases the effectiveness of local anesthesia. Sedation dentistry reduces the sensation of passing time. This can be very useful if you need complex or multiple treatments in a single sitting. It also prevents your muscles from stiffening or becoming sore due to spending extended periods of time in one position.
In every case, your sedation is closely monitored by experienced dental professionals who ensure your safety and comfort.
If you are interested in learning more about your sedation dentistry options in Orlando, FL, contact our team today!
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide is a mild dental sedation medication. Once inhaled, it induces a state of mild relaxation. It also reduces sensitivity to pain. Nitrous oxide is safe for virtually every patient, regardless of age. Following treatment, oxygen is used to neutralize the effects of the nitrous oxide. Once this is complete, you will be fully alert and able to drive yourself home.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation, or OCS, provides a stronger level of sedation than nitrous oxide. Many patients prefer to use OCS for the deeper relaxation it provides. Though you are still able to stand, walk, or answer questions, you remain in a calm and drowsy state throughout the treatment. With OCS, many patients have found they have little memory of the procedure after the fact. For patients with dental anxiety, this can be a great benefit.
Preparing For Sedation Dentistry
Proper preparation is essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of sedation dentistry. Before your appointment, your dentist will provide specific instructions based on the type of sedation you will receive. Generally, you may be asked to fast—refrain from eating or drinking—for several hours before your sedation, especially if undergoing oral conscious sedation. It’s also advisable to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment to facilitate the placement of a blood pressure cuff or other monitoring equipment. You should arrange for someone to drive you to and from the office as you will not be in a condition to drive after sedation. Additionally, inform your dentist about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements, as these can interact with sedatives.
Post-Sedation Care
After undergoing sedation dentistry, it is crucial to follow a few simple guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery. Immediately following your procedure, you should rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours to allow the sedative effects to wear off completely. Depending on the type of sedation used, you might experience some drowsiness, light-headedness, or nausea, so it’s important to stay hydrated and eat light meals as you recover. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or making important decisions during this recovery period. Your dentist might also provide specific oral care instructions to follow post-procedure to aid in healing and ensure optimal oral health.