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Dental Care With Conscious Sedation
Don't let dental anxiety stop you from caring for your smile. Ask us about conscious sedation to see if it’s right for you. We are here to make your experience as comfortable as possible and help you maintain your overall dental health!
If you feel fear, anxiety, or even embarrassment when sitting in the dental chair, you are not alone. Many patients experience significant anxiety before their dental appointments. The Woodlands Dentistry and Orthodontics is committed to your comfort, eliminating your worries, and ensuring that you receive the care you need without stress.
What Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
At The Woodlands Dentistry and Orthodontics, we understand that some patients feel anxious, and we are happy to offer solutions like nitrous oxide to calm your nerves. Known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a safe, effective, and widely-used option for dental anxiety with minimal side effects.
Nitrous oxide will not put you to sleep – instead, it helps you relax while still allowing you to stay awake and respond to your dentist if needed. Most patients who undergo nitrous oxide sedation report feeling at ease and comfortable during the procedure. Some may feel drowsy, lightheaded, or experience a tingling sensation.
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Who Is Suitable for Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Nitrous oxide is a safe option for most patients, but some may experience mild side effects like nausea or headaches. To reduce the risk of nausea, it’s best to avoid eating for a couple of hours before your appointment. If you start to feel uncomfortable during your treatment, simply let your dentist The Woodlands know, and adjustments can be made immediately. Serious side effects are uncommon.
However, nitrous oxide may not be recommended for certain individuals, such as women in the first trimester of pregnancy or patients with COPD/emphysema. On the positive side, children can safely benefit from nitrous oxide during dental treatments.
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Nitrous Oxide Sedation Process
Preparation and Administration
Before the procedure, your dentist will explain the process and obtain your informed consent. A comfortable nasal mask will be placed over your nose. You'll begin by breathing 100% oxygen, followed by the gradual introduction of nitrous oxide.
During the Procedure
Your dentist will carefully monitor your comfort level throughout the procedure and adjust the flow of nitrous oxide as needed to ensure a relaxed and comfortable experience.
Recovery
Once the dental procedure is complete, the flow of nitrous oxide will be stopped, and you'll be switched back to breathing 100% oxygen. The effects of the nitrous oxide will wear off quickly, allowing you to feel alert and refreshed shortly after.
What Is Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation is an excellent option for patients who feel uneasy about dental procedures. This method involves taking an anti-anxiety pill an hour before your appointment, which can help calm nerves, especially for those undergoing more extensive treatments or who haven’t been to the dentist in a while.
Oral sedation is not designed to put you to sleep. Instead, it will simply help you relax while the dentist performs the necessary work. You will remain awake and able to respond to questions from the dentist. Many patients report feeling drowsy, relaxed, or “out of it” while under oral sedation.
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Who Is Suitable for Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation is typically not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, or individuals with heart, lung, or liver issues. We advise that patients consult their dentist or primary care doctor before opting for oral sedation.
Anxious children can also benefit from oral sedation, which helps them feel at ease during their appointment. It also helps establish a positive association with dental care. However, after the procedure, children should be monitored and avoid any physical activities like sports.
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Oral Sedation Process
Preparation
Oral sedation uses medication to relax you during your dental procedure. Inform your dentist about all medications you take and avoid alcohol. Fasting for at least six hours before your appointment is recommended.
During the Procedure
Oral sedation typically makes the procedure feel like a blur, with minimal memory of the experience. Our team will closely monitor your safety and comfort throughout the entire process.
Post-Procedure Care
As oral sedation can affect judgment and coordination, it's essential to arrange for a responsible person to drive you to and from your appointment. You may experience grogginess and fatigue as the sedation wears off. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or making important decisions for at least 24 hours after receiving oral sedation.