Sedation dentistry, often called “sleep dentistry,” uses medication to help patients stay relaxed during dental treatments. The level of sedation can be light or deep, but the main goal is to keep you calm and comfortable. This can help you if you get anxious or nervous about dental visits. With sedation, we can work more easily, and patients often don’t remember much of the procedure to make future visits less stressful.
We always use local anesthesia to numb the area, especially for sensitive patients or for restorative and surgical procedures. We also offer nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” for both children and adults to help you relax and ease any fears you may have.
At our dental office in Arlington, TX, sedation dentistry allows you to get the care you need without feeling anxious or uncomfortable. It’s a great option for those who are nervous about dental treatments or fear pain.
Sedation Dentistry in Arlington, TX
Dental sedation helps people who feel nervous about dental visits or have trouble staying comfortable during treatment. It helps patients relax so they can get the care they need without stress or discomfort. You might benefit from sedation dentistry if you:
- Have Dental Anxiety: Does going to the dentist make you feel scared or nervous? You’re not alone! Many people avoid dental visits because of fear. Sedation can help you feel calm and relaxed, making it easier to receive the care your smile needs.
- Have a Low Pain Tolerance: Some people feel pain more easily than others. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, sedation can help keep you comfortable during your procedure so you don’t have to worry about discomfort.
- Have a Strong Gag Reflex: A strong gag reflex can make even simple dental treatments feel uncomfortable. Sedation relaxes your muscles to reduce your gag reflex. Our dentist can work more smoothly without causing discomfort.
- Need Complex Dental Work: Long or complex dental procedures, like multiple fillings, crowns, or oral surgery, can be tiring. With sedation, you’ll feel more comfortable. We can complete multiple treatments in one visit to save you time.
- Have Trouble Sitting Still: If you find it hard to sit still for long periods, sedation can help. This is especially helpful for children and people with special needs. Sedation can help you feel relaxed for your procedure.
Is Sedation Safe?
Sedation dentistry is safe when done by trained professionals. Our experienced dentists are skilled in sedation techniques and closely monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your safety. We review your medical history carefully to identify any risks and monitor your vital signs during the entire process. We also provide clear instructions on what to do before and after the procedure.
Types of Dental Sedation
Our Arlington, TX, office can offer several sedation options:
- Oral Sedation: You take a pill before the appointment to help you relax. This is great for mild to moderate anxiety. The pill takes about an hour to kick in, and you’ll stay awake but feel calm.
- IV Sedation: This involves giving the sedative directly into your bloodstream. It works quickly, and our dentist can control the level of sedation throughout the procedure. You probably won’t remember much afterward.
- Inhaled Sedation (Laughing Gas): You breathe in nitrous oxide through a mask, which helps you relax. It wears off quickly, and you can even drive yourself home after the appointment. This option is ideal for patients with mild anxiety or those who just need a little help feeling more comfortable.
- General Anesthesia: This is the deepest level of sedation, where you’re completely unconscious. We only recommend anesthesia for more complex treatments or if you have severe anxiety.
How to Prepare
You can prepare for sedation by following several steps. Generally, you shouldn’t eat or drink for at least six hours before your appointment. Also, make sure to let your dentist know about any medications or supplements you take because some may not mix well with sedatives.
You will also need to arrange for someone to drive you home. Wear loose, comfy clothes to help you stay relaxed, and plan to take it easy for the rest of the day after the procedure.
What Happens During Sedation?
When you arrive for your appointment, our dentist will explain your treatment and answer your questions. Once we administer the sedation, you’ll begin to feel calm and may get sleepy. We will monitor you closely by checking your heart rate and oxygen levels.
After the dental work, you’ll have some time to recover before you go home. Recovery time can vary based on the type of sedation we use. We will provide instructions for how to care for yourself afterward.
Aftercare and Recovery
After your dental procedure, follow our dentist’s instructions so you recover smoothly and avoid any problems. Here’s what you need to do:
- Do Not Drive or Use Heavy Machinery: Sedation can make you feel drowsy and affect your coordination. Don’t drive or use heavy machinery for at least 24 hours for your safety. If possible, have someone else drive you home and stay with you for a while.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Soft Foods: Drink plenty of water to help your body recover and stay hydrated. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks because they can dehydrate you. Stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, or smoothies for the first day or two. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate your mouth or the treated area.
- Be Aware of Side Effects: You may feel dizzy or tired after treatment. However, this will fade within a few hours. Contact us if the symptoms get worse.
- Take It Easy: Rest for the rest of the day after your procedure. Avoid any physical activity. Do not exercise, lift heavy objects, or bend over. It can slow your recovery or cause bleeding.
- Follow Medication Instructions: If your dentist prescribes any medications or pain relievers, take them exactly as directed. Don’t skip doses or take more than recommended.
Get Comfortable Care
Do you need to visit the dentist but have dental anxiety? Get comfortable sedation dentistry services in Arlington, TX. Call Cooper Family Dental for care today at 817-646-1217. You may also request a dental consultation on our website.