Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?

Patients who suffer from dental anxiety or phobia may be good candidates for sedation dentistry at our Brooklyn Heights, NY, practice. Sedation can also help to reduce discomfort during extensive procedures. During your consultation, Dr. Eugene Stanislaus and Dr. Lisa Reid will explain the two types of sedation offered: nitrous oxide and IV sedation. At Brooklyn Heights Dental®, we strive to provide comfortable, stress-free, and low-risk procedures.  

When Do We Recommend Sedation Dentistry?

If you struggle with dental anxiety or dental phobia, sedation will typically be appropriate. Dental phobia can arise for many different reasons. Sometimes it can occur because you have heard frightening stories from someone else. Or you may have had an unpleasant experience at another practice.

In other cases, you could experience dental anxiety because of embarrassment, claustrophobia, or a strong gag reflex. This condition can cause heart palpitations, nausea, and sweating. Some patients suffer from insomnia the night before a dental appointment. In some cases, you may not have visited the dentist for years because of your unease.

It is important to inform us of your health history and any known allergies. We may suggest a specific type of sedation based on this information.

We may recommend sedation before more extensive treatments, such as extractions, dental implants surgery, or bone grafting. Our treatments are very gentle and precise. However, sedation can further reduce discomfort and help you feel more relaxed.

Types of Dental Sedation

Nitrous oxide is the more conservative sedation choice. Sometimes referred to as “laughing gas", Dr. Stanislaus or Dr. Reid will administer nitrous oxide through a mask. As you inhale it, nitrous oxide will make you feel relaxed. Your arms and legs may feel tingly, and you could experience a feeling of euphoria.

The gas will leave your body quickly after treatment, so you will usually be able to drive yourself home. Nitrous oxide is suitable for almost all patients. It can be especially appropriate if you are allergic to certain oral or IV medications.

IV sedation is a much deeper form of sedation dentistry that will induce a “twilight sleep.” After the medication has been administered, you will be unaware of what is going on around you. At the same time, you will still be able to answer questions and respond to your treatment team.

It will take some time for the medication to leave your system, so you will not be able to drive yourself home. Once the medication wears off, you will have little recollection of your treatment.

We will usually suggest this type of sedation if you are undergoing oral surgery or several procedures at once. You may also benefit from IV sedation if you have a back or neck condition that will make it difficult to sit in a dental chair for a long period of time. 

Risks and Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Dental sedation is very low risk. Nitrous oxide is mild and safe even for children. Though stronger, IV medications are also safe and reliable, especially when administered by an experienced practitioner. Our team will monitor your vital signs throughout your treatment.

The levels of IV medication can be adjusted, as needed. This helps keep you safe and comfortable during your treatment. It is important to inform us about your health history and any known allergies. We may suggest a specific type of sedation based on this information.

When sedation dentistry is used, your treatment may be easier and more comfortable than you thought possible. In fact, if you have neglected dental treatment because of your anxiety, sedation will enable you to receive the care you need. As a result, you could enjoy vastly improved oral health for many years to come.

Find Out If Sedation Is Right for You

If you have neglected dental issues or your oral health due to dental anxiety, or would like to learn more about dental sedation, contact Brooklyn Heights Dental® today for a one-on-one consultation.