If you are anxious or fearful about dental treatment, sedation dentistry techniques at Alpine Dental Care can help you achieve a state of deep relaxation or even sleep while you receive the dental care you need without the burden of emotional and physical discomfort. We offer different types of sedation to suit your needs, and our dentists are experienced in providing care that prioritizes your safety and well-being.
- What Is Sedation Dentistry?
- Sedation Dentistry Benefits
- Types of Sedation Dentistry
- Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry
- Sedation Dentistry Cost
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to dental treatment performed while a patient is under sedation. Usually, the method utilized is nitrous oxide gas, oral conscious sedation, or intravenous (IV) sedation. These different techniques provide varying depths of sedation (from gentle relaxation to deep sleep), and the most fitting approach is selected based on the patient’s health, unique needs, and preferences. Our dentists review each patient’s specific concerns, fears, anxieties, and challenges—along with their medical history and the type of treatment he or she is receiving—in order to develop the most suitable sedation plan. Throughout treatment, vital signs and patient comfort are closely monitored to ensure optimal safety and success.
What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation techniques can be advantageous to a broad range of patients who need and/or desire dental treatment. Frequently, our team of dentists utilizes sedation for patients with:
- Jaw limitations or soreness
- Special needs
- A fear of the dentist
- A fear of needles and injections
- Severe gag reflex
- An extensive or invasive treatment plan
- Time limitations
- Sensitivity to pain
- Neck and/or back pain
What Types of Sedation Are Offered?
The two main types of sedation dentistry methods we provide include oral conscious sedation and IV sedation. We also offer nitrous oxide gas for its analgesic (pain relief) and anxiolytic (anxiety reducing) effects.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation involves a small sedative pill (ingested prior to treatment) that produces deep relaxation without putting you to sleep. This approach allows you to remain awake and respond to instructions; however, patients often have very little memory of treatment. Once your treatment is complete, you will need a friend or family member to drive you home as you will feel a bit sleepy and foggy.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is designed to keep you asleep throughout the duration of your treatment. The medication is administered intravenously, which quickly helps you achieve a deep, pain-free sleep. You will have very little, if any, recollection of your appointment. For your safety, your vital signs are monitored closely both while you are sedated and as you emerge from sedation. As is the case with oral conscious sedation, you will also require the assistance of a friend or family member to return home after treatment.
What Are the Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry?
Common side effects patients experience as a result of sedation can include:
- Lost or spotty memory of the treatment or appointment
- Lingering grogginess and/or fatigue
It is also possible to experience lightheadedness, headaches, dry mouth, nausea, and/or dizziness as the sedation wears off. If you are concerned about the way you feel or notice any unusual symptoms, we encourage you to contact our practice as soon as possible.
How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
Many of our patients agree that the overwhelming benefits of sedation make it well worth the price. Since the fees for sedation vary from patient to patient, it is important to schedule a sedation dentistry consultation to determine:
- If, in fact, you are a good candidate for sedation
- Which type of sedation is the best match for your needs
- How much sedation you will require
- A cost estimate for your combined dental treatment and sedation plan
If you are considering ways to make paying for your treatment more affordable, we can look into your dental insurance benefits, discuss the payment methods we accept, and help you explore financing opportunities available to qualified applicants through CareCredit® (a trusted third-party lender).
Do you want to learn more about sedation dentistry? Please contact our practice with any questions you have. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is happy to answer questions and to help you schedule a free consultation with Dr. Shen.*
