It is normal for some people to get anxious when going to the dentist for a dental procedure. According to dental medicine research, more than fifteen percent of Americans experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. If you are one of them, sedation dentistry might calm your anxiety and fears. At Brightwork Family Dentistry, Dr. Benjamin J. Crowley provides sedation dentistry in Richmond to ensure you are comfortable when you get into the dental room. To learn more about sedation dentistry, call or schedule an appointment online today.

What is sedation dentistry?

This is a technique that makes patients relax when undertaking dental procedures. There are four sedation dentistry levels, including minimal, moderate, deep, and general anesthesia. General anesthesia is the only type of drug that makes the patients entirely unconscious. When under minimal sedation, you stay awake during the whole procedure but are in a very relaxed state. For moderate sedation, you might find it hard to remember the treatment procedure as you are very relaxed. Deep sedation puts you in a slightly conscious state. The medication helps eliminate anxiety, makes you sleepy, and reduces your sensitivity, allowing you to relax and stop fearing the pain.

Why should you consider sedation dentistry?

Various reasons why you should consider sleep dentistry include a general anxiety disorder, sensitive oral nerves, phobia of dental procedures, bad dental treatment experience in the past, resistance to local anesthetic, and a small mouth that becomes sore during a dental procedure. If you have any of these issues, Brightwork Family Dentistry offers practical and convenient sleep dentistry services. Dr. Crowley and his team will help you get through any dental problem, including root canals, dental implantation, tooth extractions, and more.

Are these types of sedation safe?

Dr. Crowley is professionally trained and licensed to administer two sedatives: nitrous oxide and oral sedation. The doctor assesses you during your initial consultation and recommends the best sedation method for your fear and anxiety level. Both of these sedation types are entirely safe.

What is the difference between nitrous oxide and oral sedation?

Oral sedation involves using a mild sedative, usually a specific pill with similar effects to the popular valium. The doctor starts by administering a small dose an hour before your dental procedure to relax and calm you. Depending on your relaxation level, the doctor may administer a higher dose of moderate sedation medication. For minimal or moderate sedation, you may need someone to accompany you during your dental appointment as you might still experience some sleepiness after the dental procedure.  However, with nitrous oxide, you will be able to drive after the procedure. Nitrous oxide is administered by putting a mask over your nose, which you will breathe and cause you to relax. This form of inhaled sedation enables the doctor to examine your relaxation and tolerance for the gas.

In conclusion, do not let anxiety about seeing the dentist prevent you from undergoing the needed dental care. For effective sedation dentistry in and around Richmond, VA, call or book an appointment online with Brightwork Family Dentistry today.

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