Sedation Dentist – Beachwood, OH
Sit Back & Relax
Is going to the dentist really stressful for you? Have you canceled or avoided dental appointments because of anxiety? If so, we’re more than happy to help with sedation dentistry. This technique enables our trusted sedation dentist in Beachwood, OH to calm pesky nerves so patients can feel at ease in the chair no matter what procedure they need. It has worked for countless people in the past, and it can do the same for you.
Why Choose the Center for Advanced Dentistry for Sedation Dentistry?
- Holistic, Whole-Body Approach to Dental Care
- Sedation Available for Any Procedure
- Methods for People of All Ages
Oral Conscious Dental Sedation
For patients who experience dental anxiety or phobia, those who have sensitive teeth, gums, or gag reflex, and those who need complex treatments, oral conscious sedation offers a safe, effective means of delivering the care they need. A sedative is prescribed prior to treatment, and patients take the medication at a predetermined time before their procedure. The sedative is long lasting allowing patients to relax and reducing pain and discomfort throughout treatment. Patients will need to have a friend or family member accompany them to and from their appointment and should plan to rest for at least 24 hours following their first dose of medication.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
With nitrous oxide, all you have to do is breathe. A small mask is placed over your nose, through which you inhale a colorless, nearly odorless gas that creates feelings of warmth and euphoria. The mask stays on for the entire appointment, and after we take it off, the effects go away quickly and do not linger. This means you can get back to your day right away and even drive yourself home from your appointment.
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Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is an excellent option for patients who struggle with mild to moderate dental anxiety or fear. It can also be helpful for individuals with a strong gag reflex or who are not easily numbed by local anesthesia. We even use it for children because it is safe for patients of virtually all ages!
Of course, nitrous oxide may not be ideal for everyone. If you are pregnant, have certain respiratory conditions, or are currently taking certain medications, you might not be a candidate for this type of sedation. Our team will learn about your medical history before approving you for nitrous oxide.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Nitrous oxide does not involve the use of any needles or pills. Rather, we simply place a mask over your nose, through which we administer a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. Then, all you have to do is breathe. Within a minute or two, you should start to feel the effects of the sedation. You may notice that you are relaxed. Some patients feel giddy and start to giggle, which is why nitrous oxide is also known as “laughing gas.”
After your treatment, the mask will be removed, and you will start to feel like yourself within a few minutes.
Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide
The effects of nitrous oxide do not linger for very long, but you will still need to stay in our office for a few minutes while you return to your normal state of mind. Our team will keep an eye on you just in case you experience any negative side effects. Once you leave your appointment, you should feel well enough to operate a vehicle or return to work. However, keep in mind that if you underwent a complex dental procedure, you may need to take it easy for a few days. Our team will provide specific post-treatment instructions to help you enjoy a smooth recovery.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
What Are the Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry?
The side effects of sedation dentistry are usually mild and tend to wear off quickly. Depending on the type of sedation used, some patients experience:
- A headache
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Grogginess
These issues usually wear off as the sedative medication leaves the body. Any severe or lingering side effects (which are quite rare) should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe While Pregnant?
Because the medications used in sedation can pass through the placenta and affect a developing fetus, sedation is not typically recommended for pregnant individuals. If you are expecting, it would be best to stick with local anesthesia when you undergo dental care; it is safe and poses virtually no risk to a developing baby.
If there is an urgent situation that requires sedation, it is safest during the second trimester of pregnancy.
Will I Remember Anything with Dental Sedation?
Nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation and usually does not affect memory. Oral conscious sedation, on the other hand, is more powerful. After it wears off, patients usually do not recall anything that happened during their procedure. This is commonly viewed as a benefit because the sights, sounds, and sensations of dental treatment can be disturbing for some individuals.
What Does It Feel Like to Be Sedated at the Dentist?
The sensations you experience will depend on the type of sedation used and your body’s unique reaction to it.
With nitrous oxide, most people feel a relaxed sensation. They might even feel giddy and start giggling (which is why nitrous oxide is sometimes called “laughing gas”). Some individuals also experience a floating sensation.
With oral conscious sedation, you may become very tired and even drift off to sleep. Your limbs may also feel heavy.
How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
The cost of sedation dentistry depends on a few factors, including the method used. Nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation may add a few hundred dollars to the total cost of your care. Our team can provide you with a cost estimate and help you understand your payment options. If you wish, we can help you apply for low-interest financing through CareCredit.
Remember, sedation might seem expensive, but it may actually help you save money in the long run. By enabling you to undergo necessary treatments in a timely manner, it can prevent dental problems from worsening and leading to the need for more extensive (and more expensive) procedures.
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