You may have heard of the term sedation dentistry before. Sedation dentistry is more than just a concept, it’s a useful branch of dentistry that can help patients who are anxious or afraid relax during their dental appointment. But while it’s extremely effective in allowing you to relax, sedation dentistry has a few other awesome benefits that you may not have known about.
Here are a few surprising ways that sedation dentistry can help you!
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the practice of using sedation methods during any dental appointment. Though there are several levels of sedation available, oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide sedation are the most common and popular options.
- Nitrous oxide sedation: This colorless, sweet-smelling gas is administered via a mask that fits on the nose. While undergoing treatment, you will likely experience a feeling of calm, but you will remain fully awake and alert. Your dentist will remove the mask after treatment, and because there are no lingering side effects, you can go back to your regular day without interruption.
- Oral conscious sedation: This is administered via a sedative that you will pick up at your pharmacy of choice prior to your appointment and take it under the guidance of your dentist. Though you remain awake, you will experience a deeper relaxation than with nitrous oxide. Please be aware that if you choose this method, you will need a ride home from your appointment and you should plan on taking the rest of the day off while the sedative wears off.
The Lesser-Known Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
In addition to creating a calming, relaxing feeling, sedation dentistry also has a few lesser-known benefits. These include:
- Faster recovery: If you have taken any type of sedation, studies have shown that your recovery time will be faster than if you had not.
- Faster treatment: Because you will be more comfortable, you are more likely to be compliant with your treatment, meaning your dentist will be able to finish treating you much sooner!
- Multiple treatments: If you are more relaxed, it may make it easier for you to receive a variety of treatments in one appointment, saving you time.
Remember, sedation dentistry is a wonderful option for patients who have dental fears or anxiety, but it can also help in other ways, too. If you’re interested in seeing how sedation dentistry can help you, please speak to your dentist when scheduling your appointment.
About Dr. Rottman
Dr. Travis Rottman has been practicing dentistry since 2011, after earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery at Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. A champion of patient comfort, Dr. Rottman has received additional training and experience in oral conscious sedation.
If you’d like to see if you are a good candidate for sedation dentistry, please contact Sachse Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment and ask our office team to discuss your options. You can request an appointment on our website, or give us a call today at 972-848-0073.