Types of Sedation Dentistry and Their Benefits

Are you scared of the dentist? We understand that many patients struggle with dental anxiety, and are so fearful about going to the dentist sedation-dentistrythat they prefer not to have treatment. Sedation dentistry can take away your anxiety. It uses medicine to help patients relax during dental procedures. Led by Dr. Julie Forte, Forte Family Dentistry in Berkley, MI specializes in sedation dentistry. Read on to learn about the different types of sedation options and their benefits.

#1 Medication- For minimal sedation, your dentist can give you oral medication an hour before the procedure. Drugs that can be used include triazolam, zaleplon, lorazepam, hydroxyzine, and diazepam. The medicine will make you drowsy, although you will be awake. One of the greatest benefits of oral conscious sedation is that patients feel completely relaxed during every stage of the treatment process.

#2 Laughing Gas- Nitrous oxide, also referred to as laughing gas, is a form of inhaled sedation that helps patients relax during dental treatment. You breathe nitrous oxide and oxygen through a small mask that's placed over your nose. Your dental care provider can control the amount of sedation you receive, and the gas usually wears off quickly. Laughing gas can reduce anxiety, improve your mood, and eliminate your pain during dental treatment.

#3 IV Sedation is the administration of a sedative drug through a vein. It allows your anxiety levels to be managed while keeping you at least somewhat aware during treatment. You will be able to respond when spoken to, move, and breathe independently. IV sedation will keep you comfortable and reduce stress during dental treatment.

#4 General Anesthesia- General anesthesia is commonly used to facilitate dental treatment in people with anxiety. The procedure renders patients unconscious through the use of potent medications and gas. Most patients under this type of anesthesia do not feel pain and have no memory of the procedure. In this unconscious state, there's also an absence of anxiety and fear.

Don't let dental anxiety stop you from visiting the dentist. Our dentist Dr. Julie Forte specializes in sedation dentistry can calm your nerves and put your mind at ease. Call Forte Family Dentistry in Berkley, MI at 248-546-2030 right now to schedule a dental appointment. We're committed to helping our patients overcome their fear of the dentist, so they can maintain a healthy smile for a lifetime.

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