Sedation Dentistry

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses prescription medication or anesthesia to help you relax during oral health care. 

Sometimes, people refer to sedation dentistry as sleep dentistry, but that title isn’t entirely accurate. You might feel drowsy or doze off during treatment, but your dentist can easily wake you if necessary.

Who can benefit from sedation dentistry?

The team at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics might recommend sedation dentistry if you:

• Experience dental anxiety
• Have a low pain threshold
• Have a sensitive gag reflex
• Have extremely sensitive teeth
• Experience difficulty sitting still

You might also benefit from sedation dentistry if you need oral surgery or an extensive amount of dental work. 

What are the types of sedation dentistry?

The team at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics offers several types of sedation dentistry, including:

Minimal sedation

Minimal sedation uses nitrous oxide — a colorless, odorless gas — to help you relax. You breathe nitrous oxide through a mask placed over your mouth and nose. Nitrous oxide makes you feel happy and sleepy. It wears off quickly, so you can drive home after your appointment.

Oral sedation

If you need extractions, the team might recommend oral sedation. Before oral sedation, you take a prescription medication, like Halcion. Once the Halcion kicks in, it causes you to relax and feel drowsy. You might doze off during treatment, but your dentist can wake you up, if necessary.

Intravenous (IV) sedation

If you have severe dental anxiety or have trouble sitting still, the team might recommend intravenous sedation. Intravenous sedation administers anesthesia into a vein in your arm. Your dentist adjusts the amount of medication you receive throughout treatment, ensuring your comfort.

IV sedation takes several hours to wear off, so make sure to have a friend or family member available to drive you home.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Sedation dentistry is safe, but it can present risks. During your initial consultation, let the team at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics know if you have an underlying medical condition like diabetes or obstructive sleep apnea. 

These issues won’t necessarily prevent you from receiving sedation, but they may increase your risk of complications. 

To see if you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry, make an appointment at iSmiles Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.