Sedation Dentistry Options For Dental Phobia
Are you nervous about going to the dentist? If so, you’re not alone. Dental phobia and anxiety are common problems that may be due to negative past experiences, the thought of dental instruments, or some of the widely held stereotypes about dentistry. Unfortunately, whether they are founded or not, these fears and anxieties may be stopping you from getting the dental care you need.
Thankfully, Dr. Stovall offers sedation dentistry, a useful relief from dental anxiety that can help our patients conquer their fears and get their oral health on track. Not only can sedation help you overcome your phobia, but also keeping you relaxed in the dentist’s chair helps Dr. Stovall work more easily during your procedure. We guarantee that Dr. Stovall and his experienced staff will monitor you while you’re sedated to ensure you stay calm and safe.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the practice of safely using customized medications to help you stay relaxed and ensure you have a positive experience while at our office. Beyond helping patients overcome dental phobia and anxiety, this relaxation technique is good for patients who have:
- High sensitivity or low pain thresholds
- Trouble sitting still
- Extensive procedures scheduled
At Stovall Dentistry, we have three sedation options that can be administered orally or through IV that can suit your unique needs; nitrous oxide, oral, and IV.
Types of Sedation Dentistry We Offer
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is one of the most commonly used forms of sedation dentistry. This odorless, colorless sedative is inhaled through a mask and is known for producing feelings of giddiness and euphoria, hence the nickname. Additionally, nitrous oxide produces a weak anesthetizing effect that can be utilized on its own, or in combination with a stronger anesthetic to eliminate pain.
You may be a good candidate for nitrous oxide sedation if:
- You have issues swallowing or remembering to take pills
- You have a fear of needles
- You’re resistant or allergic to other forms of sedation
- You want a sedative that acts fast and wears off quickly
- You need to drive yourself home
Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry
Oral conscious sedation, also called enteral sedation, is a sedative given to you in the form of an easy-to-swallow pill. To administer oral conscious sedation, you’ll take the pill at the prescribed time before your procedure. Depending on the procedure you’re scheduled for, you may also have an oral anesthetic prescribed to take alongside your sedative, or we can administer your anesthetic at our Goldsboro, NC office.
Common substances used in oral conscious sedation include Halcion, Ativan, and Midazolam. Depending on the dosage and substance prescribed, oral conscious sedation can be a mild or moderate form of sedation. While oral conscious sedation isn’t designed to put you to sleep, it will leave you groggy afterwards, so you’ll need to secure a ride home and take time off for the effects to fully wear off.
You may be a candidate for oral conscious sedation if:
- You’re afraid of needles or don’t like inhaling gas
- You’re resistant or allergic to other forms of sedation
- You can get a reliable ride home
- You can take time off post-procedure to recover
IV Sedation
Intravenous or IV sedation is one of the most effective forms of sedation dentistry. During IV sedation, the sedative is administered directly into your veins via a needle. Common substances used for intravenous sedation include Midazolam, Ketamine, Propofol, and Dexmedetomidine.
Like laughing gas, IV sedation works quickly, but unlike laughing gas the effects can be felt for hours afterward. While IV sedation isn’t designed to put you to sleep, you may become so relaxed that you drift off and memory loss post-procedure is not uncommon.
You may be a candidate for IV sedation if:
- You’re resistant or allergic to other forms of sedation
- You want a sedative that works quickly
- You have issues swallowing or remembering to take pills
- You don’t like inhaling gas
- You can get a reliable ride home
- You can take time off post-procedure to recover
Stovall Dentistry For Sedation Dentistry Options That Work
With sedation dentistry, no matter how intense your phobia or fear of the dentist is, Dr. Stovall and his talented team can help you get the necessary dental care you require. Dr. Stovall will be sure to thoroughly review your medical history and evaluate your health needs beforehand and our team will consistently monitor you while you’re under sedation to ensure your procedure is both relaxing and safe.
To learn more about which sedation dentistry option is best for you, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stovall, contact Stovall Dentistry by dialing (919) 583-7081. You can also fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page and a friendly team member will return your call shortly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I feel after dental sedation?
How you feel after dental sedation depends on what type of sedation you receive. After nitrous oxide, you’ll quickly return to your normal self after 2 to 3 minutes. Following oral sedation and IV sedation, it typically takes 24 hours to metabolize the medication. You’ll need to have a ride home in these cases.
In addition to following any recommendations by Dr. Stovall, you’ll want to refrain from any activities that could physically harm you or another person. Stay hydrated and rest as needed.
Can I talk during conscious sedation?
During conscious sedation, you’ll be able to respond to questions and may or may not remember the procedure. You’ll be completely relaxed and free of worries. Most patients report a euphoric and calm sensation.
Other common side effects of dental sedation include:
- Delayed reflexes
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache
Dr. Stovall will be in communication with you throughout your treatment to ensure you’re comfortable and free of pain, so he can adjust the dosage as needed.
Is sedation safer than general anesthesia?
Conscious sedation is safer than general anesthesia because there are more risks associated with losing consciousness. That’s why general anesthesia is reserved for invasive surgeries that typically take place in hospitals.
Conscious sedation has its own risks such as:
- Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
- Respiratory depression
- Allergic reaction
While complications with dental sedation are rare, having a trusted dentist such as Dr. Stovall administering the medication will ensure you receive the proper dosage and that the treatment will produce the best possible results. You’ll be at ease with Dr. Stovall and dental sedation.
What is the cost of sedation dentistry?
The cost of sedation dentistry depends on factors such as the sedation dentistry option that’s applied, the number of appointments required, and the amount of time you spend under sedation. Because these factors can vary so much based on your individual needs as a patient, you’ll discuss payment and cost with Dr. Stovall during your initial consultation.