Are you fearful of going to the dentist and getting the dental treatment you need and desire? Are you in pain but too anxious to schedule an appointment? Do you have trouble getting numb? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. At Radiant Family Dentistry, we understand that dental anxiety is real and can pose a challenge for receiving the dental care you need. That is why we offer a number of anti-anxiety and sedation options to ensure a relaxed, painless, and stress-free dental experience. Our goal is to provide a safe and personalized approach to your individual sedation needs.
Sedation Dentistry & You
Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Mild Sedation)
Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective solution for patients with mild dental anxiety. Also known as “laughing gas,” patients inhale the nitrous oxide through a comfortable nasal mask, inducing a state of calm and relaxation that sets in within a few minutes. It also aids in reducing discomfort and pain perception. This sedation method is an excellent choice for both adults and children due to its safety and rapid recovery. Unlike other sedation methods, nitrous oxide allows patients to remain aware and responsive during treatment.
Conscious Sedation (Minimal To Deep Sedation)
Oral conscious sedation is especially beneficial for individuals who experience moderate to severe dental anxiety, have a hypersensitive gag reflex, or have a limited tolerance for prolonged dental procedures. It is also ideal for more complex treatment or for those who want to get more treatment done in fewer visits.
Our dental anesthesiologist will assess the type of sedation that meets your individual needs while prioritizing your overall health and safety. After completing a thorough evaluation of your medical history, the anesthesiologist will administer a carefully selected sedative medication, creating a state of calm where patients remain conscious yet deeply relaxed. You are able to breathe independently and are aware enough to respond to verbal instructions while minimizing discomfort and anxiety. While sedated, your vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, are closely monitored to ensure your safety.
IV General Anesthesia (Full Loss Of Consciousness)
For individuals undergoing major surgical procedures including wisdom teeth extractions, multiple teeth extractions, implant placements, or other lengthy and complex treatment, IV general anesthesia may be a suitable option. It involves administering anesthetic drugs directly into your bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line to induce a state of deep sleep and unconsciousness throughout the surgical procedure. Our dental anesthesiologist may use a combination of IV sedatives and analgesics to induce and maintain a state of general anesthesia.
While IV general anesthesia is safe when administered by trained specialists, there are certain risks that are dependent upon your medical history. That is why our dental anesthesiologist will conduct a thorough evaluation of your overall health first and determine if IV general anesthesia is a safe option for you. Patients undergoing IV general anesthesia are also closely monitored throughout treatment, including vital signs like your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, to ensure your safety.
