The fear of going to the dentist is common, so is the anxiety that might accompany you as you wait for the procedure to begin. For some, this fear manifests in a way that makes getting dental care more challenging, but there are still options. People with a high level of dental anxiety often opt for what is called sedation dentistry. Some sedation dentistry Greenville SC involves actual sleep, but most types do not put you fully under. Sedation aims to help create more relaxed and comfortable dental visits both for children and adults. Several types of sedation are available, and you and your dentist can discuss several factors when deciding which drugs to use for your treatment.

What is Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation covers a variety of techniques used to help calm a patient before and during a dental procedure. Since many people worry about the pain and potential discomfort they might feel while in the chair, your dentist can administer a drug before or during the appointment to help you feel more comfortable. General anesthesia renders the patient completely unconscious, but the other forms will relax you without completely knocking you out.

Common Types of Sedation Dentistry:

Nitrous Oxide

This helps you relax during the process and wears off quickly. Your dentist might let you drive yourself home after your appointment. It is administered via a mask and is probably the most common form of dental sedation.

Enteral Sedation

This comes in both liquid and pill forms that are taken orally. It is often used alongside nitrous oxide. You may still be awake during the procedure, but not nervous about the dental work.

IV Sedation

This is another form of an anti-anxiety method wherein the sedative is injected directly into a vein. This will allow the dentist to provide you with a deeper level of sedation compared to other methods and make you less aware of the procedure, although you are awake for the entire time.

General Anesthesia

This is the form of sedation that will make you sleep for the entire procedure. It is performed using drugs that are directly injected into a vein, along with the possible inhalation of laughing gas. Exact recovery time in the office may be needed before leaving, and typically you will need someone to drive you home from the appointment.

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Is Sedation Dentistry Greenville SC Right for You?

Before your dental work appointment, discuss with your dentist about your fears and concerns, so your dentist will recommend the type of sedation suitable for you. If you have any questions about sedation dentistry Greenville SC, contact Pelham Links Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today.