A visit to the dentist’s office can be extremely nerve wracking. It is an unknown world filled with different tools and terminology that can be hard to understand for many. At Alpine Dentistry, we do our part to explain each procedure the best we can to give you complete clarity. However, we understand that different procedures, especially surgical ones, can bring anxiety. We offer different types of sedation dentistry to help you feel more comfortable and avoid any possible pain during different procedures. Below is a different list of sedation methods we offer. 

 

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation occurs with a prescribed medication. The medication should be taken the night before and then just a couple of hours before the procedure. It is likely that you will feel groggy and very drowsy after taking the medication. Oral sedation allows you to be awake during the procedure. You will be aware of what is happening, but in a state of deep relaxation. You may feel heavy and maybe even fall asleep. You should arrange for someone to drive you to and from the office for safety purposes. 

 

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous Oxide, or more commonly known as laughing gas, is a sedative administered through a breathing mask. Laughing gas can be given to all patients, including kids. It is colorless and odorless and meant to relax each patient. You will feel very heavy but will be completely aware of the procedure happening. Laughing gas wears off once you start breathing normal oxygen again. No medication and no needles are required. You can decide if you want this sedative once you arrive at the dentist’s office. You may feel sleepy afterwards and have a possible headache, but the effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly. 

 

IV Sedation 

IV sedation is a heavy duty sedation that is administered through the bloodstream, meaning a needle will be placed in your hand or arm and will deliver the drug throughout the entire procedure. This will cause you to feel heavy, sleepy, and very relaxed, however, you will not be fully unconscious. The moment the needle is administered, the drug begins to work in your bloodstream, calming you down and making it difficult to feel pain. Your blood levels, heart rate, and other vitals will be monitored on a nearby screen. This is the best sedative for extensive surgeries. The IV can easily be adjusted throughout the process if necessary. 

 

 

Here at Alpine Dentistry, we want each of our patients to feel comfortable and safe in our office. If you have any special needs, or if you know that you are anxious when it comes to visiting the dentist’s office, please feel free to let us know what we can do to help. Just because you may be nervous about something does not mean you should not be allowed a smile that boosts your confidence. If you have any questions about sedation dentistry, give us a call or visit our office in Alpine, Utah, today! 

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