Sedation Dentistry in Goldsboro, NC

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. 

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