Since sedation dentistry is widely known for its anxiety-relieving benefits, it’s not surprising that many patients chalk it up to being only good for that. However, this calming solution offers several advantages, even if you aren’t scared of the dentist. In fact, for many patients, it’s the key to having the comfortable and enjoyable dental experience they desire! Keep reading to learn more from your dentist in Lacey about other benefits of sedation dentistry, which may be more diverse than you expect.
The Best-Known Form of Dental Sedation
Nitrous oxide is the most common sedation method used in dentistry. It is regularly called “laughing gas” due to the euphoric feeling patients experience from it. With nitrous oxide sedation, you breathe a mix of the gas with oxygen through a mask placed over your nose. Your level of sedation will be adjusted accordingly during your appointment, and the effects of the gas will wear off after just a few minutes once the mask is removed.
Non-Anxiety-Related Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
While there is no denying the benefits of sedation dentistry for patients struggling with dental-related anxiety, it’s important to note that there are many other advantages. Here are a few:
- Since the patient is relaxed, more dental work can be done in a single visit to save them time.
- Sedation dentistry ensures the patient can respond to verbal commands and physical touch throughout the procedure.
- Recollecting less after the procedure helps create a more enjoyable experience.
- Reduced head, neck, and jaw pain.
- The effects of certain sedation options, like nitrous oxide, dissipate quickly.
How to Talk to Your Dentist About Sedation Dentistry
If you think you could benefit from sedation dentistry, the first step is to talk to your dentist. Remember, they want you to have the comfortable dental experience you deserve, so don’t hesitate to ask. From there, they can learn about your concerns and review your medical history.
After confirming you are a candidate, they will review your available options like nitrous oxide. Some practices may offer oral conscious sedation or IV sedation. Lastly, they will answer any questions, provide you with all the necessary instructions, and get everything prepared for your upcoming treatment.
Sedation dentistry is much more than an anxiety-relieving tool; it’s the key to helping many patients have the comfortable dental experience they desire. Now that you are more familiar with the benefits of sedation dentistry, you can talk to your dentist about what they offer to make your visit more pleasant and productive.
About the Practice
At Peterson and Cammack Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, you can expect stellar treatment for your smile. Dr. Venn Peterson and Dr. Spenser Cammack both attended Brigham Young University and now proudly share membership in the American Dental Association. They offer nitrous oxide sedation, but you can expect your comfort to be prioritized regardless of the procedure you need. You can schedule an appointment on their website or call (360) 459-4420 and mention sedation in advance if you are interested in it.