Finding Sedation Dentistry Near Me: A Guide
Have you heard of sedation dentistry and want to know if it is available in your area? With a number of sedation techniques and options, you have the opportunity to feel less anxious and more comfortable during dental appointments and procedures. The dentist also benefits because they will have more time to work without having to manage their fatigue or restlessness. You can find a dental practice that meets your dental care needs and can help you stay comfortable during your appointment.
Sedation dentistry has multiple tiers, from minimal to intravenous sedation. Minimal sedation options include nitrous oxide, which induces a calming feeling. You will still be aware, alert, and awake during dental procedures. Oral conscious sedation requires the use of a pill before an appointment. Oral medication leaves you more deeply sedated compared to nitrous oxide. The strongest form of sedation is administered through intravenous (IV) medication. Depending on where you live, the dentist may need additional training and certification to administer this. Where this type of sedation is used, the office will require specially trained staff and specific equipment to ensure the patients receive safe and effective doses. This type of sedation is used for more complicated procedures or for very anxious patients. If you know that you would like to pursue dental treatment with some level of sedation, you can narrow the list of providers in your area who offer these services.
One of the first questions to ask is if the practice offers sedation and what types are available. The dental office staff will explain what each sedation type is, who each type is appropriate for, and how each type is monitored for patient safety. Feel free to ask about their special training or their certification. You want to make sure that the practice is following the right protocols and you are comfortable with the quality of your care during your appointment. Most practices will note whether they have sedation options on their website, but you can also call with questions.
After you've narrowed your list of potential dentists, consider scheduling a consultation; you will be able to meet the dentist, talk about your needs and concerns, your health and dental history, and what types of sedation you are interested in using during your treatment. During that appointment, the dentist will help you prepare, discuss what to expect, and your recovery after treatment, so you can start to manage your dental anxiety. During the consultation appointment, you will be able to see the physical location of the office and experience the way the office staff treat their patients.
Once you have reviewed your sedation options and the experience during the consultation appointment, you can move forward with your dental treatment and achieve your oral health goals.
If you have more questions about sedation dentistry or how it could work as a part of your treatment plan to achieve better dental health, make an appointment with the dentist to see if sedation dentistry is the best option for you.