Is Sedation Dentistry Safe? What to Know and How to Prepare for Your Procedure

Many of our patients at our DeSoto location come to us with questions surrounding the risks and benefits of sedation dentistry. While there are many reasons sedation may be offered for dentistry practices, all revolve around the comfort and well-being of you – the patient. As such, we are committed to keeping our patients informed of all of their options for any upcoming appointment, as well as helping you make the right decision for yourself by educating you on every aspect. To do this, we offer a variety of sedation options which we explain in detail prior to your appointment.

Exploring Sedation Options with Your Family Dentist

Whether you’re considering sedation for an upcoming major dental procedure, or you’re interested in how it can help with anxiety over a dentistry visit, we’re here to help. As your family dentist, our focus is on providing you with the most caring and comprehensive oral care practices, and that includes ensuring your level of comfort while in our care and also during recovery processes. Sedation often plays a major role in this part.

Before making any decisions surrounding sedation, it’s important to make sure you have all of the information in order to make the right choice for your needs. For starters, there are a few different options in terms of sedation that offer varying levels of comfort and relaxation. These options include prescription medications taken in advance, nitrous oxide treatments, IV sedation, and even a combination of methods is sometimes in order.

The Pros and Cons of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is often thought of for major procedures such as tooth extraction, root canals, and other, more intense oral services, but the truth is, it is also often used to help patients who suffer from anxiety prior to any dental appointment. One of the best ways to determine which option is right for you, is by taking a look at the pros and cons of each option.

• Prescription Medication. In some cases, Dr. Gupta can provide a prescription sedative to be taken orally prior to arriving for your appointment. The positives with this allow you to be fully relaxed from the moment you arrive. On the flip side, it will require you to have someone with you to drive you to your appointment as it will impair your ability to drive.
• Nitrous Oxide. Perhaps the most commonly known sedative, nitrous oxide (or laughing gas) is frequently used for its effectiveness (can be administered as long as needed) and for its ability to wear off quickly. On the downside, the calming effects are limited to the time of administration only.
• IV Administration. This version is a sedative given intravenously and is popular for its ability to be adjusted as needed. This method, however, will require patients to have someone drive them home afterwards as the effects do not wear off as soon as others.

Call Us at Our DeSoto Location to See If Sedation Is Right for You

If you’re wondering if sedation dentistry could help get you through your upcoming procedure or help with any anxiety you may be experiencing surrounding dental visits, we’re happy to help walk you through the process. Give us a call or visit our DeSoto location today to find out more!