Many people throughout the United States neglect their oral health because they have dental anxiety or are concerned about sitting still for lengthy procedures. As a solution, dentists can turn to sedation dentistry to help patients feel more relaxed during treatment.

Several types of sedated dentistry are available. Understanding their key differences can help you choose which one is right for you.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry requires a dentist to use various medications and techniques that relax and calm you before and during dental treatment. Some offices use nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, to help you feel relaxed. Others use medications that allow you to sleep through your appointment.

More dentists are offering dental sedation to patients because of its many benefits. The practice is especially valuable for those with dental fears, medical conditions, or a strong gag reflex.

Facts About Oral Sedation Dentistry

Oral sedation requires you to take a prescribed medication orally before your dental treatment. The medication, which typically comes in liquid or pill form, is designed to relax you and reduce your anxiety. You’ll remain conscious and responsive throughout the procedure, which is why it is also called conscious sedation.

Oral sedation is a great option for those who:

• Struggle to get numb
• Need extensive treatment like implants
• Have been previously hesitant to undergo treatment

This type of sedation helps you feel physically and mentally relaxed, making dental visits less stressful.

Another major benefit of oral sedation is its convenience. Because it is an oral medication, you do not need injections or IV lines to achieve relaxation. However, the medicine’s onset can take longer than IV sedation.

Facts About IV Sedation Dentistry

Intravenous (IV) sedation also eases anxiety and induces a state of deep relaxation. This practice involves injecting sedative medication directly into the bloodstream via a vein. It is often used for complex or lengthy treatment because it creates deeper sedation than conscious sedation. However, the dentist controls the level of sedation.

Not all patients require IV sedation. It is typically recommended for those who are undergoing multiple procedures in a single appointment or who have extreme dental phobia.

An advantage of IV sedation is its predictability. Because the dentist administers the medication into the bloodstream, they can monitor the effects and adjust as needed. You’ll always have an appropriate level of sedation for your procedure.

Choosing Between IV and Oral Sedation

Every patient has unique needs. If you are deciding between IV and oral sedation, consider the following factors:

• Medical history and overall health
• Level of anxiety
• Type and duration of treatment
• Availability of qualified professionals

IV sedation requires additional training beyond dental school. Your dentist may have completed the necessary classes to provide IV sedation, or they may partner with an anesthesiologist or certified nurse anesthetist.

Don’t Let Fear Stop You From Getting Treatment

At Pinnacle Dentistry, our experienced team offers oral sedation. After reviewing your medical history and current medications, we may recommend sedation dentistry for your treatment. Call us today, and our team of professionals will help you begin enhancing your oral health.