Does your heart start pounding at the simple thought of having a cavity filled? Do you get sweaty palms when you pass a dental practice?
Many people who have improved their smile with cosmetic dentistry or underwent extensive restoration services chose to use sedation. Though the terms ‘sleep dentistry’ and ‘oral conscious sedation’ are generally used interchangeably, they are not identical. Let’s discuss the three main types of sedation used in dentistry.
Nitrous Oxide
The first level uses nitrous oxide, or ‘laughing gas’ as it is often called. Nitrous oxide has been used in cosmetic dental offices for generations because it is safe and effective. It goes to work at the first inhalation, relaxes the patient during the service, but wears off quickly after the mask is pulled off. If you need a little help to get through dental care, but don’t want to be knocked out cold, nitrous may be the best option.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral sedatives don’t start working as rapidly as nitrous oxide, but they help most patients achieve a deeper level of tranquility. These medications, however, do not usually lead to complete unconsciousness. Thus, oral sedatives and nitrous oxide are used in ‘conscious’ sedation. Two of the most prevalent sedatives used by Yuma dentists are diazepam and triazolam.
IV Sedation
IV sedation uses medications similar to those used in surgery and results in true ‘sleep dentistry.’ Most patients are unaware of what is going on in their mouth. IV sedation is often used for services such as root canals, wisdom teeth extractions, and multi-procedure smile makeovers. (The sedation will wear off shortly after the procedure, so you won’t need a handsome prince’s kiss to wake you up.)
For more information about sedation dentistry, adult braces, tooth implants, or porcelain veneers, call The Yuma Dentist at 928-783-0804.
Contact The Yuma Dentist (Tap to open in Google Maps):
The Yuma Dentist – Pacific Avenue
1630 S Pacific Ave Ste 104
Yuma, AZ 85365
928-783-0804The Yuma Dentist – Fortuna Foothills
11231 E Commercial Center Loop Ste 105
Yuma, AZ 85367
928-783-8300
