Sedation Dentistry

If you experience dental anxiety, sedation dentistry provides a safe and effective way to help you relax. At Contemporary Dental Care of Mt. Vernon in Mount Vernon, Ohio, Chris Martin, DDS, Judy Peng, DDS, and the team offer several types of sedation dentistry options for adults. If you’ve been avoiding the dentist due to worry or fear, book online to schedule an appointment or call the office to learn about sedation dentistry today.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses various substances, like nitrous oxide or prescription medication, to help you relax during oral exams and dental procedures. It allows you to receive the oral health care you need while limiting uncomfortable feelings like stress, anxiety, or fear. 

While sedation dentistry helps you relax, you’re still awake and aware of your surroundings throughout treatment.

What are the types of sedation dentistry?

At Contemporary Dental Care of Mt. Vernon, the practice offers several types of sedation dentistry, including:

Inhaled minimal sedation

Inhaled minimal sedation uses nitrous oxide or “laughing gas.” During treatment, you inhale a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide through a mask that fits comfortably over your nose. The gas helps you relax and feel at ease.

Throughout your appointment, the amount of gas you receive will be adjusted. With that said, nitrous oxide wears off quickly. You should be able to drive home as soon as your appointment is finished.

Oral sedation

Oral sedation uses prescription medication like Halcion® or Valium® to help you relax. You take a pill orally 45 minutes before your appointment. The pill makes you tired but doesn’t put you to sleep. You can still follow the practice's instructions throughout treatment.

Oral sedation takes several hours to wear off. Because of this, you’ll need to have a friend or family member available to drive you home.

IV moderate sedation

IV sedation administers medication through a needle into a vein. This type of sedation works quickly because it bypasses your digestive system entirely. To ensure your comfort, the amount of medication you receive throughout treatment is adjusted.

What type of sedation dentistry is best?

The team reviews your oral health history to determine the type of sedation dentistry that will most benefit you. They will also ask questions about your fear or anxiety. After gathering the necessary information, they can make a treatment recommendation that aligns with your needs.

To learn more about the benefits of sedation dentistry, request a consultation at Contemporary Dental Care of Mt. Vernon. Book online to schedule an appointment or call the office to speak with a staff member today.

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