At 918 Dentist, we understand that dental anxiety can be a significant barrier to receiving essential oral care. To help our patients from Tulsa, Glenpool, and surrounding areas feel more at ease, we offer various sedation dentistry options. A common question we encounter is: “Are you completely asleep during sedation dentistry?” Let’s explore this topic to clarify what you can expect.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s particularly beneficial for those who experience dental anxiety, have a low pain threshold, or need extensive dental work. Our sedation options are designed to make your visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Levels of Sedation
The level of sedation can vary depending on the method used:
1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): This is a mild sedative inhaled through a mask placed over your nose. It helps you relax while remaining fully conscious. The effects wear off quickly after the procedure, allowing you to resume normal activities promptly.
2. Oral Conscious Sedation: Involves taking an anti-anxiety pill before your appointment. You’ll feel drowsy and relaxed but stay awake and responsive. Due to the lingering effects, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
3. IV Sedation: Administered intravenously, this method induces a deeper state of relaxation. While you won’t be fully unconscious, many patients feel so relaxed that they may not remember the procedure. As with oral sedation, arranging transportation home is necessary.
4. General Anesthesia: This method renders you completely unconscious and is typically reserved for complex procedures. Under general anesthesia, you’ll be entirely asleep and unaware of the procedure until you wake up.
Are You Completely Asleep?
With most sedation methods—nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation—you remain conscious but deeply relaxed. General anesthesia is the exception, where you’re entirely asleep during the procedure. The appropriate level of sedation depends on your anxiety level, the complexity of the procedure, and your overall health. Our experienced team will discuss the best option to ensure your comfort and safety.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Beyond alleviating anxiety, sedation dentistry offers additional advantages:
● Time Efficiency: Allows multiple procedures to be completed in a single visit, saving you time.
● Reduced Discomfort: Helps minimize discomfort during lengthy procedures, making it easier to remain still.
● Positive Experience: Creates a more pleasant dental visit, encouraging regular appointments and better oral health.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when administered by trained professionals. At 918 Dentist, our team is experienced in providing sedation options and will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your well-being. Before recommending sedation, we’ll review your medical history and discuss any concerns to determine the most suitable approach.
Serving Tulsa, Glenpool, and Surrounding Areas
We proudly serve patients from Tulsa, Glenpool, and the surrounding communities. If dental anxiety has been keeping you from achieving optimal oral health, sedation dentistry might be the solution you need. Contact 918 Dentist today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can make your dental experience comfortable and stress-free.