3 Options for Sedation Dentistry

Posted by clburke

Not everyone is comfortable in the dentist chair, and Dr. William Walden and the rest of us at Walden Dentistry understand that. Rather than avoid seeing a proper dentist in Chandler, AZ, because of your reluctance, know that you can instead opt to be sedated during your procedure. Here are three options you might prefer.

1. Intravenous (IV) Conscious Relaxation

With this particular option for sedation dentistry, you will receive a controlled amount of drugs before your procedure to help relieve your anxiety. Know that you will be conscious during your procedure, but you will not remember anything about it. We will be sure to keep a close eye on your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing.

2. Oral Sedation

If you are equally anxious about needles and IV tubes as you are going to the dentist, you might prefer oral sedation over IV conscious sedation. Before your procedure, you will take a pill that induces drowsiness, which means someone will need to drive you to your appointment. When you arrive, you will be in a relaxed state for your procedure. Just like with IV sedation, your vitals will be closely monitored to ensure your safety. After we are done, your escort can drive you home where you can sleep the rest of the medication off.

3. Nitrous Oxide

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is one of the most common sedation techniques. Once administered, the gas takes about five minutes to relax the patient before Dr. Walden starts your procedure. The gas is easily controlled during the procedure for complete comfort, and once the gas is stopped, the effects wear off within minutes. You do not have to worry about needles, and you will also be able to drive yourself home without worrying about needing an escort.

These are just a few options available to you if you are often anxious while visiting the dentist. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have questions or would like to explore other options for sedation dentistry.