Oral Sedation Southbury, CT
Oral sedation can help even patients rest comfortably in the dentist's chair during an appointment. There is a wide range of oral sedatives available to help facilitate patients' relaxation. With oral sedation, we can help ensure patients receive the proper form of treatment they need.
Oral sedation for dental anxiety in the form of nitrous oxide is available at Southbury Dental Care in Southbury and the surrounding area. You should never have to neglect professional dental care for various reasons from anxiousness to other health issues. Call us today at (203) 278-5337 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Why Oral Sedation
Anxiety or concern about a dental visit can prevent patients from going into the office for much-needed procedures. In a 2017 study published in the Journal of Dental Medicine, 8.4% of all study respondents reported missing a dental appointment due to some level of anxiety about the appointment. Unfortunately, neglecting one's oral health can have disastrous effects on one's systemic health. Oral sedation can help.
Our team offers inhaled sedation in the form of nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas.” It is administered through a breathing mask in a controlled amount to help ease the patient’s concerns. With this form of sedation, the patient will be able to answer any questions while feeling calm and comfortable.
“Anxiety or concern about a dental visit can prevent patients from going into the office for much-needed procedures.”
Preparing for Oral Sedation
There are many things to consider when receiving oral sedation. Patients and dentists must have a frank conversation about the levels of sedation necessary — in minimal sedation, patients are awake but relaxed; in moderate sedation, patients are conscious but unable to speak. We offer mild sedation in the form of nitrous oxide.
Our team will determine if the patient is a candidate for nitrous oxide. We may also consider the patient's pain threshold, their ability (or inability) to sit still in the dentist's chair, their teeth sensitivity, and the amount of dental work that must be completed. We may also provide patients with further instructions to prepare.
“We may also consider the patient’s pain threshold, their ability (or inability) to sit still in the dentist’s chair, their teeth sensitivity, and the amount of dental work that must be completed.”
Benefits of Nitrous Oxide Sedation
When it comes to receiving dental care, some patients struggle with anxiety about a dental checkup or sitting still for long periods of time. Nitrous oxide can help to ease nerves and allow patients to relax. Benefits to nitrous oxide sedation include:
- Being able to remain awake during the procedure and communicate with the dentist
- An easy-to-administer system with the use of a mask
- Minimal side effects following the procedure
- No need to take any medication or pill before the appointment
Since some patients struggle with dental procedures or checkups, this form of minimal sedation is a beneficial tool to help patients receive professional dental care. While brushing twice a day and flossing once a day at home can help, professional dental care is crucial to maintaining oral health.
“Nitrous oxide can help to ease nerves and allow patients to relax.”
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Qualifying for Sedation
While sedation can help many patients get the dental care they need, there are some rare instances where it may not be recommended. In other words, there is the possibility that nitrous oxide may not be suitable for everyone. Patients should notify our team if they have any preexisting conditions or are taking any medications, drugs, or supplements.
It is also crucial for patients to let us know if they have any allergies to medications. With all this information, we can determine if oral sedation is the appropriate option. If it is not, we can come up with a suitable alternative.
“While sedation can help many patients get the dental care they need, there are some rare instances where it may not be recommended.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How do dentists determine who is a candidate for nitrous oxide?
Q. What are the benefits of using nitrous oxide during an appointment?
Q. Am I qualified for oral sedation?
People Also Ask
Q. How can I cope with dental anxiety?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I drive myself home after oral sedation?
A. While the effects of nitrous oxide wear off fairly quickly after removing the mask, we may need to verify the patient is able to drive. If we have any concerns, the patient may need to organize a ride home from the appointment.
Q. Is nitrous oxide right for my child?
A. It depends on a case-by-case basis. In general, children should be able to receive some amount of nitrous oxide when monitored by a professional. We will determine if the patient is a candidate for nitrous oxide during the consultation, after reviewing their medical history.
Q. Will I remember my time in the dentist's chair after the nitrous oxide wears off?
A. Yes. Unlike other sedation options, nitrous oxide does not cause patients to fall asleep immediately. In most cases, the patient remains awake in a relaxed state during the procedure. This way, they can respond to directions or communicate with us when needed.
Q. What are the side effects of nitrous oxide?
A. While uncommon, some people may experience negative side effects such as dry mouth during or after the procedure, headache, nausea, and grogginess. In many cases, the relaxed state a patient is in from the nitrous oxide stops fairly soon after removing the mask. We can help to determine if this is the right option for you and go over any necessary instructions.
Q. Who is the ideal candidate for nitrous oxide?
A. While nitrous oxide is a viable option for most patients, the ideal candidate for it is someone who has had unpleasant past dental experiences. Alternatively, they may have extra sensitive teeth or an extra-strong gag reflex. Nitrous oxide can also help younger patients who do not do well sitting still in a chair for long periods of time.
Start Feeling Better – Visit Us Today
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
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Call Us Today
Do not let anxiety or other health issues stop you from getting the oral health care you deserve. Call us today at 203-278-5337 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2021
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2021
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2021
About our business, license, and website security
- Southbury Dental Care was established in 1985.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: New Haven County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Southbury, Middlebury, Oxford, Newtown and Woodbury
- National Provider Identifier Database (1376705319). View NPI Registry Information
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