Sedation Dentistry in Garner, NC
Sedation dentistry, or the use of medication to help patients relax, is often a solution we offer to our patients who suffer from dental anxiety. Dental anxiety is any mental stress that patients experience when they visit the dentist. Our team at Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry understands that there are many reasons for experiencing fear or anxiety over a dental visit. We want to make the process as painless and stress-free as possible.
Whatever the reason for your dental anxiety, Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry strive to work through this issue with you and create a positive environment that encourages good oral health practices.
Dr. Matthew Jenne and the Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry team can use dental sedation practices for any procedure, from our general dentistry services to affordable dental implants. If you are experiencing dental anxiety or fear of dentists, we have the solutions to assist you with these issues.
Oral Sedation Services at Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
At our dentist office, we offer multiple sedation options. The most mild form of sedation is nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas. You breathe this in through the nose via a mask or cannula throughout your dental procedure. It both takes effect and dissipates very quickly, making it the only sedation option where you can drive yourself to and from your procedure. It only requires a few breaths before you’re back to normal.
Laughing gas keeps you awake through the procedure, but you’ll be relaxed and a bit sleepy. Patients often describe a euphoric effect when they’re using laughing gas. If the dental staff have any questions to ask you throughout the procedure, you’ll still be able to answer them.
For deeper sedation, we also offer oral conscious sedation. We prescribe an anti-anxiety medication in pill form for you to take an hour or so before your dentist appointment. With this sedation, you’ll need a ride to and from your dentist appointment. While laughing gas wears off almost immediately, it takes several hours for the effects of oral conscious anesthesia to completely wear off.
With deeper sedation, you’re even more relaxed. While we don’t put you to sleep with this form, you may fall asleep in the chair during treatment, and may not remember portions of the procedure.
Sedation Dentistry Benefits
Sedation dentistry most often targets patients with dental fear. Dental anxiety occurs on a spectrum. For some people, it’s only triggered by certain sounds or tools used in the office, while others can’t set foot in the office at all. Dental fear can be severe enough that patients avoid regular dental checkups, making them more likely to have severe dental problems. If you can go into the office for cleanings regularly, you’re less likely to spend extra time in the dentist office.
Sedation allows the dental fear patients that require intensive care to come and get it. It may seem daunting to spend hours in the dental chair, but it’s easier when you’re relaxed and calm. This is true for anyone that needs multiple procedures or intensive care. It’s difficult to stay still and not flinch and adjust yourself for long periods. Sedation calms the urge to do this so that the dentist can perform their work quicker and safer.
Patients with movement disorders also struggle to get proper dental care. Dentistry involves precise work and sharp instruments, risking them hitting the soft tissues in your mouth when you move involuntarily. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Sedation relaxes these movements so that you can get the care you need safely.
When you have a gag reflex, it basically fights the dentist as they’re trying to work in your mouth. It can push instruments away and make it difficult to reach needed areas. Gagging is severely uncomfortable for the patient and can even lead to vomiting. Sedation calms these reflexes so that it’s easier to work in your mouth.
Dental Sedation FAQs
Sedation dentistry provides many benefits to various patients. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
How long does dental sedation take to wear off?
Dental sedation takes about 24 hours for the full effects of sedation to wear off. Patients should begin to feel back to normal 4-8 hours after the procedure. We recommend you not return to work or school until the next day.
What should I do before dental sedation?
It is important not to eat or drink anything before your dentist or surgeon puts you under sedation. Patients cannot eat or drink 6 hours before their procedure. You may have water up to 2 hours before. Patients should avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before their procedure.
Will I feel any pain with dental sedation?
While sedated, patients will feel zero pain. Dentists use sedation to make procedures comfortable and pain-free. In addition, we always use a local anesthetic to numb the area we’ll be working on. After the sedation wears off, you may feel some slight tender soreness, but you will not feel anything during the procedure or while sedated.
How long do I have to avoid eating before?
Before dental sedation, your dentist will recommend that patients refrain from eating for at least 6 hours. Patients should also avoid drinking anything, including water, for 2 hours before the appointment. Nothing must be in your body before the dentist or surgeon sedates you.
Schedule An Appointment Today
If you are unsure if sedation dentistry practices are best for you, schedule a consultation today. During this consultation, you will have the chance to discuss the benefits of sedation dentistry and any concerns you have with Dr. Jenne. He can also thoroughly explain any potential procedures you may need so that you are fully informed about your dental healthcare plan. Don’t risk putting off your dental health due to dental anxiety. We are here for you!