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At Sharp Smile Center, it’s our goal to make sure everyone has a positive dental experience. For some patients, dental sedation is needed to make that happen and we don’t judge! Our Greater Kalamazoo sedation dentists offer a few different methods for you to choose from and will work with you to determine what is most appropriate.
In the meantime, here’s a list of commonly asked questions (and answers!) about sedation.
Dental sedation involves the use of medication to help patients feel calm and comfortable during their time with us. Sedation for dental procedures often comes into play if an individual needs assistance getting through a routine cleaning, dental implant placement, root canal treatment, and more. is especially helpful for people who avoid appointments because of fear, have a sensitive gag reflex, or struggle with sitting still for long periods.
Patients of all ages can undergo dental sedation for anxiety. Some people feel nervous about needles or sounds. Others have had past experiences that make dental visits stressful. Dental sedation for adults is common, but children and teens can also benefit when appropriate. The goal is simple: make care easier so patients don’t delay treatment.
There are three main options for dental sedation. Laughing gas is a form of mild dental sedation, oral conscious sedation, or is another level up, and IV sedation is a deeper method of relaxation. Each option allows our local sedation dentists to tailor care to each patient’s comfort level and the type of treatment needed.
Laughing gas is inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose and takes effect quickly. You stay awake, relaxed, and responsive throughout your procedure. Once the nose mask is removed, the effects wear off fast and most patients are able to drive themselves home. This is a popular option for mild anxiety or shorter visits.
Oral conscious sedation uses prescribed medication taken before your appointment. Pill sedation at the dentist helps you feel deeply relaxed, and some people remember very little of the visit. You’ll still be awake and able to respond, however, but you’ll need someone to drive you home. This option works well for moderate anxiety or longer procedures.
provides a deeper level of relaxation. Medication is delivered through an IV in the arm and monitored closely throughout treatment. Many patients sleep through most of the visit and remember very little afterward. This type of sedation is often recommended for complex procedures like dental implant surgery or for patients with severe anxiety.
Yes, when administered by a trained professional, dental sedation is safe. Our dentists will review your medical history, medications, and comfort level before even recommending sedation. Vital signs are monitored during treatment, and all dental sedation methods follow strict safety guidelines.
Settling on a dental sedation option depends on your anxiety level, overall health, and the type of treatment planned. Our Portage, MI, sedation dentists will talk with you about your concerns and explain all that is available. Together, you’ll decide which method helps you feel comfortable and confident about getting the care you need.
If you want to know even more about how you can relax in the exam chair during your next visit, our sedation dentists in Portage serving Greater Kalamazoo, MI, would love to have a chat. Call Sharp Smile Center today at (269) 344-4004 to request an appointment.