Dentists use many dental procedures, from a minor filling to extraction, a root canal to dental implant — and so many more. Many patients don’t think twice about having any of them done. Many others, however, question whether they will feel anything during their dental procedure and may have some anxiety about the entire visit.
To help ensure dental visits are as comfortable as possible without feeling anything, sedation dentistry is often used in addition to traditional techniques for those who need it.
Will I Feel Pain During My Dental Procedure?
Dentists always take steps to make sure you do not feel any pain during your treatment. They are there, after all, to help you protect your oral health. So, before any dental procedure, a numbing agent will usually be applied to the gums and a local anesthetic will be administered. As a result, the entire area will be numbed throughout the procedure.
Because of the anesthesia, patients may feel some pressure, though they should not feel any pain at all. (Note: Always alert your dentist if pain is felt.)
Nonetheless, pain is relative. What one person may refer to as painless another may feel some discomfort. To make sure that you are fully comfortable during your dental procedure, your dentist may offer you some sort of sedation.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses different techniques to help patients feel calm, relaxed, and comfortable during their dental procedure. While they are not necessarily used to reduce pain, they do help take away the fear of it. Remember, pain is managed using the local anesthetic mentioned above.
So, how does sedation dentistry help?
Patients who have anxiety about visiting the dentist often avoid going, only causing greater and more complex issues with their oral health. In turn, this requires bigger, more complex procedures. While their reluctance to visit the dentist can stem from many different things, pain is often a common factor.
To help bring a sense of ease to dental procedures and the absence of pain, dentists will offer various types of sedation.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Because every patient and every situation is different, most dentists offer more than one option when it comes to sedation. Below are a couple of the most commonly used to help patients get through their dental treatment pain-free and anxiety-free.
Nitrous Oxide
Often referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a sedative that is delivered through a small mask that fits over the nose. It helps patients feel at ease while still remaining conscious and responsive throughout treatment.
Nitrous oxide is quick to take effect and it subsides quickly too.
Nitrous Oxide with Valium
There are some patients who may require a little more than just laughing gas. Taking the anti-anxiety pill known as valium before the procedure can further introduce feelings of peace and calm throughout the treatment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
This type of sedation also involves taking a pill that will reduce the patient’s level of anxiety significantly. They will be able to respond and will be awake, but they are not likely to remember much of the dental treatment.
Oral conscious sedation is a great option for those who have a low pain threshold.
Discuss Your Options with Your Dentist
If you feel pain during your dental procedure or are afraid that you may, it is important to be open and talk about this with your dentist. There are steps that can be taken to ensure that you are relaxed and without any pain as you undergo treatment.
Comfortable Dentistry at Champagne Smiles
Many patients have fear and anxiety about going to the dentist. At Champagne Smiles, we provide the most comfortable dental experience with our gentle approach to treatment, spa-like amenities at appointments, and four levels of dental sedation.
To learn more about what we offer, contact us today at 732-972-0918. Or request an appointment online.