Preparing for any kind of dental procedure or treatment can often cause patients to feel anxious or afraid. Dentists work hard to combat these feelings by offering calming amenities and services to help minimize uncertainty and nervousness – sleep dentistry in Lockport is one of them. Read on to learn more about this type of treatment and how it can help create a more relaxing experience.
What is Sleep Dentistry?
Sleep dentistry is also commonly referred to as IV sedation. Administered intravenously through the hand or elbow, medication travels through the IV and into the bloodstream, allowing for fast-acting effects.
Patients who receive this type of treatment often experience severe dental anxiety or are preparing to undergo a more complex procedure. The medication works quickly to produce a calming effect so that the individual feels nothing throughout the appointment.
What Makes This Form of Sedation Different From Others?
IV sedation or “sleep dentistry” is different than nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation because it’s generally more powerful.
Nitrous oxide is the mildest option and is used for those who have mild anxiety. The gaseous mixture is inhaled through a nasal mask, allowing the patient to become calm and relaxed within minutes.
Oral conscious sedation is slightly stronger than nitrous oxide and is reserved for those who have moderate anxiety or who are receiving multiple services in a single appointment. A pill is prescribed and taken before the visit so that by the time the person reaches the dentist’s chair, they are comfortable and ready for treatment.
These two methods of sedation do not cause the individual to fall asleep but instead keep them conscious, although completely unfazed by their surroundings. Sleep dentistry, however, can cause a person to doze off during their procedure and often causes slight amnesia afterward, which is often a welcome side effect, as many individuals do not want to recall what occurred during their appointment.
The only way to know if sleep dentistry or one of the other sedation options is right for you is to meet with your dentist in Lockport. After evaluating your overall health, they can determine if any of these methods will be effective.
It’s the goal of your dentist to ensure your comfort and safety while administering any kind of treatment, so if you have questions about sleep dentistry, don’t be afraid to ask.
About Grand Dental – Lockport
At Grand Dental – Lockport, our dentists want you to have a positive experience while visiting our office. No matter what kind of care you require, we provide sedation dentistry to help ease anxiety and calm nerves so that you can relax while allowing us to take proper care of your oral health. Visit our website or call (815) 240-8068 to discuss your options and whether sleep dentistry (IV sedation), nitrous oxide, or oral conscious sedation is right for you.