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How Does Dental Sedation Feel?

December 29, 2022

Filed under: Uncategorized — texasdentistry @ 4:47 pm
A woman undergoing dental sedation

If you have dental anxiety, you may want sedation dentistry for an upcoming procedure. After all, that option would make your treatment much more comfortable! However, perhaps you’re hesitant due to not knowing how it feels. That’s only natural — most prefer having an idea of how an experience will go. Fortunately, your Kaufman dentist can explain the effects of dental sedation. Here, then, is a summary of sedation dentistry, what it feels like, and how to tell if you qualify.

Some Context: What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses sedatives to calm a dental patient for treatment. In other words, it eases stress such that your time in the dentist’s chair is easier.

There are various types of sedation dentistry. Which is right for you depends on factors like genetics, your current health, etc.

How Does It Feel?

How dental sedation feels depends on the kind you receive. For example, consider the three common types listed below:

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide sedation has you inhale what’s popularly known as “laughing gas.” As such, it inspires mild giddiness and euphoria that help you relax. This relaxation won’t put you to sleep, though, but will leave you conscious enough to respond to the dentist’s questions and instructions.

One upside to nitrous oxide is its effects fade after you breathe normal air.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Unlike nitrous oxide sedation, the oral conscious variety is a medication you take before treatment. The result is a deeper relaxation than what “laughing gas” offers. Still, you’ll be aware of your surroundings and able to communicate with your dentist.

Since oral conscious sedation is a heavier kind, its effects persist beyond your dental visit. In fact, it often takes a few hours to wear off.

IV Dental Sedation

Interestingly, IV sedation provides even more stress relief than nitrous oxide or conscious sedation. This fact stems from how the method sends sedatives directly through your veins. Consequently, it’ll make you feel so relaxed that you may have trouble staying awake.

As with the oral conscious type, IV sedation’s effects can last hours after treatment. Still, they usually let up by the next day.

How Do I Know if I Qualify?

You can tell if you qualify for sedation dentistry by talking to your dentist. They’ll know if you can undergo it safely based on your medical history, health conditions, etc. Plus, a dentist can detail how sedation helps dental anxiety, fidgetiness, and other issues.

Ultimately, dental sedation should only give you good feelings that improve treatment quality. Therefore, talk to your local dentist about sedative options for your next visit.

About the Practice

Texas Dentistry is based in Kaufman, TX. As led by its many excellent dentists, our practice strives for comfortable and effective dental care. To that end, we perform custom treatments that span preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency procedures. We also take pride in being a certified provider of dental sedation services! For more information or to book a visit, reach us on our website or call by phone at (972)-932-3918.

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