Dental treatment can only benefit your smile if you undergo it. For many patients, that isn’t as easy as it may seem to others. Dental fears and phobias, the reasons for which differ for everyone, can cause varying levels of anxiety at the thought of sitting in the dental chair. To help put your mind at ease and relax enough to receive necessary treatment, your Milford dentists at Sensitive Care offer a choice of sedation dentistry techniques that are safe for patients of all ages.
Dental Anxiety Management
The first step to effective dental care is establishing a relationship between you and your dentist, and if dental fear is a concern, then we’ll discuss your history and possible methods of overcoming your fears. Sometimes, simply understanding your dental health issues and possible treatment options can help you relax. Often, however, a more involved option is needed, such as the administration of oral and/or nitrous oxide sedation.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide, frequently called laughing gas for the euphoric, care-free feeling it induces, is the most common form of sedation dentistry. The colorless, slightly-sweet-smelling gas is inhaled through a mask that fits over your nose, and expelled immediately through your mouth as you breathe. The effects are nearly instantaneous, and wear off just as quickly after a few inhalations of oxygen, so you can recover fast enough to drive yourself home after your procedure.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedatives are typically given in pill or liquid form, and depending on the level of sedation required, may be taken the night before and the morning of your procedure. Oral sedation is stronger than nitrous oxide, and the effects can last for the rest of the day. Your memory of the procedure may be foggy and unclear, and you’ll have to bring a responsible adult with you to drive you home afterwards.
To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling (203) 878-6699. The specialists at Sensitive Care Cosmetic & Family Dentistry proudly serve patients and their families in Milford, Stratford, West Haven, New Haven, and all surrounding communities.