Yes! At Periodontal Health Center, we’re proud to offer sedation dentistry options to help ease dental anxiety and make you feel more comfortable. Creating positive experiences for our patients is very important to us!
Here’s what you need to know about sedation dentistry options:
Types of Sedation Dentistry for Periodontal Procedures
To cater to different levels of dental anxiety and specific procedural requirements, we offer three main types of sedation: laughing gas, oral sedation, and IV conscious sedation.
Each method is designed to provide varying degrees of relaxation and comfort, ensuring that every patient can find a suitable solution. Whether you need light sedation to take the edge off or a deeper level of relaxation for more invasive procedures, we have the right option for you.
Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)
Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, is a safe and effective sedative agent mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose. This sedation option is designed to help you relax without putting you to sleep. You will remain awake and able to respond to any requests or directions from your sedation dentist.
The process is simple: you’ll breathe normally through your nose, and within a few minutes, you should begin to feel the calming effects. Patients often report feeling light-headed or experiencing a tingling sensation in their arms and legs. Some even describe their limbs as feeling heavy. The primary goal is to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your procedure.
One of the benefits of laughing gas is that its effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed, allowing you to return to your daily activities without dietary restrictions or the need for a driver.
Oral Sedation
For patients who experience more significant dental anxiety, oral sedation may be a more effective solution. This method involves taking prescribed medication either the night before or an hour before your procedure. These medications help provide deeper relaxation and can sometimes result in amnesia of the procedure itself. While the goal is not to put you to sleep, oral sedation induces a deeper level of calm than laughing gas, allowing you to retain your ability to breathe independently.
Due to the profound level of relaxation and the potential for lingering effects, patients will need a responsible adult to escort them to and from their appointment. Driving is not permitted after taking oral sedation.
IV Conscious Sedation
IV conscious sedation, also known as “twilight sleep,” is the most profound level of sedation we offer. Administered intravenously (through an IV), this method allows our sedation periodontist to control the amount of sedative you receive, maintaining a relaxed and anxiety-free state. Despite the depth of sedation, you will remain responsive to verbal commands and capable of breathing without assistance.
Patients who choose IV conscious sedation often do not remember their procedure, making it an excellent option for those with severe dental anxiety. However, there are essential preparations to consider before undergoing IV sedation. You’ll need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you until the effects wear off. Additionally, you should avoid working or operating hazardous machinery for 24 hours post-procedure. Comprehensive pre- and post-procedure instructions are available on our website to ensure you are fully prepared and know what to expect.
IV conscious sedation is safe, and our qualified sedation periodontists offer it at both our Tampa and New Port Richey periodontal offices.
Treatments That Can Benefit from Sedation
When it comes to treatments like gum grafts, dental implants, pocket reduction surgery, regeneration surgery and others, sedation can be particularly beneficial for preventing discomfort. We can also provide laughing gas sedation for less invasive procedures, like scaling and root planing, to help you relax.
Depending on the complexity and your anxiety level, we may recommend laughing gas, oral sedation, or IV conscious sedation to ensure you remain at ease throughout the procedure, and to create a truly personalized experience. Our experienced team of periodontists prioritizes your comfort!
Things To Know Before Sedation
Before undergoing any sedation dentistry, there are a few essential things to know:
- Medical History: Be prepared to provide your complete medical history, including any medications, allergies, or chronic conditions. This information is crucial for determining the most appropriate sedation option for you.
- Fasting Requirements: Depending on the type of sedation, you may need to avoid eating or drinking for a specific period before your appointment. Your periodontist will provide detailed instructions based on the sedation method you will receive!
- Transportation: For oral sedation and IV conscious sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment. You should also have someone stay with you for a few hours after the procedure to ensure your safety as the sedative effects wear off.
- Post-Procedure Care: After sedation, avoid strenuous activities, operating heavy machinery, or making important decisions for at least 24 hours. Follow any additional post-procedure instructions provided by your dentist to ensure a smooth recovery.
- Communication: Please feel free to ask questions and express any concerns you may have about the sedation process! Our team is here to support you and provide all the information you need to feel comfortable and confident about your treatment.
IV conscious sedation is extremely safe, and our periodontists are qualified to perform this in both our periodontal offices in Tampa and New Port Richey/Trinity.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions before or after your procedure. Need to schedule your next appointment? Schedule yours now!
