Relax During Your Dental Treatment
For many patients, the biggest obstacle to their good oral health is a fear of visiting the dentist. Anxiety and fear can occur to varying degrees, but in many cases, it’s enough to prevent patients from attending regular dental visits or receiving additional treatment when necessary. The good news is that dental sedation can help calm that fear and alleviate anxiety, helping fearful patients relax and remain calm throughout the course of their treatment. Even if you aren’t anxious or fearful, the addition of dental sedation can help significantly improve your overall health and more.
When sedation is appropriate
In addition to helping patients overcome their anxiety, sedation can also be a valuable addition to several different treatment plans. For example, the ability to keep you calm, still, and relaxed can help improve your comfort and shorten the time it takes to complete treatments such as:
Dental sedation options
- Nitrous oxide – Nitrous oxide, or NO2, is commonly referred to as laughing gas, though it doesn’t actually make you laugh. Instead, the mild sedative creates a slightly euphoric feeling that makes your time in the dental chair more comfortable and your overall experience more pleasant. Laughing gas is safe for patients of all ages, and the sedative wears off quickly so you can drive yourself home after your treatment.
- Oral sedation – Oral sedation is medication that you can take as a pill or liquid the night and morning before your treatment. The medication produces a stronger sedative reaction than nitrous oxide, and may be recommended for more involved dental procedures. You may still feel drowsy and slightly clumsy after your treatment is complete, so we advise bringing a trusted adult to drive you home safely from your appointment.
Ask us about dental sedation
Customized dental sedation can make your treatment more comfortable, even if you don’t suffer from heightened anxiety or dental fear. To learn more, schedule your consultation at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Houston, TX, today by calling (281) 974-4494.