Dental care should not cause stress, pain or anxiety, but for some people, even the thought of dental treatments can be stressful. Our compassionate team at Carrington Square Dental are excellent at making our patients feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental visits; but sometimes, extra help is needed to put patients at ease. To ensure every patient can comfortably receive the dental care they need, we offer sedation dentistry options at our facility in Waxhaw, NC.
Sedation dentistry is used for a variety of reasons. Some people have dental anxiety or a phobia of dental treatments, which sedation can help relieve. Other patients have challenges that make it difficult to relax during oral treatments, such as a severe gag reflex. Sedation is also used for invasive or lengthy procedures to allow the patient to rest peacefully during their treatment. The type of sedation used depends on the patient and procedure.
IV Sedation
For oral surgery or when complete sedation is needed, IV sedation is the most comprehensive option. Patients are put into a sleep-like state and will not remember the dental treatment. Our dentists ensure the patient can safely be placed under IV sedation before the procedure and a relative or companion will be required to bring the patient home after their procedure.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For moderate to severe dental anxiety or those with special needs, oral conscious sedation may be an option. This form of sedation uses oral medication that is taken before the visit to put the patient in a relaxed, but conscious state. While patients do remain conscious, many do not remember their treatment after the sedation effects wear off. Patients will need a responsible adult to ensure they get home safely after their procedure.
Nitrous Oxide
The mildest form of sedation we offer is nitrous oxide. It is also known as a laughing gas because of the euphoric effects. During treatment, patients breathe in the nitrous oxide to maintain the sedative effect. Once the treatment is over, a few breaths of fresh air will dissipate the effects of nitrous oxide. Patients can drive themselves home after this type of sedation.
Sedation dentistry offers a comfortable way for many people to receive their needed dental care. If you are interested in learning more about our sedation options at Carrington Square Dental, contact us at our office in Waxhaw, NC.