Hamilton DENTAL SEDATION

Does the thought of seeing a dentist cause anxiety? If so, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that roughly 15% of the population, or 30 million Americans, have dental-related anxiety. For some, fear of the dentist is a full-blown phobia.

We want our patients to be comfortable when seeking treatment. With this in mind, we offer sedation dentistry for patients who suffer from this type of anxiety and fear. At Century Stone Dental, our team will do everything they can to make you feel as comfortable as possible. If you require dental sedation, we are happy to provide you with that during your next visit.

What is Nitrous Oxide or “Laughing Gas?”

Nitrous oxide is a safe, odorless gas that helps your muscles and nerves relax. You remain completely awake while receiving the gas, and once the gas is stopped, there are no side-effects. Laughing gas got its name because some patients experience laughing or giggling due to the “happy” feelings it can cause.

While the way you feel while receiving the gas may differ slightly than how someone else feels, the effects are generally the same. Most patients report that their bodies feel light and relaxed, and their minds are calmer.

How is Dental sedation Administered?

The dentist will place a mask, similar to an oxygen mask, over your face. Be sure to let us know if you have any concerns or anxieties about wearing it. You will receive an incremental dose of nitrous oxide until you begin to feel the full effects.

The dentist will check with you frequently to see how you’re feeling. The exact dose of gas varies from person to person, as some are more sensitive to it than others.

How does Sedation Differ from Anesthesia?

Anesthesia is different than sedation. We use local anesthesia to help prevent pain during dental procedures. If you’ve ever had a cavity filled, you likely received local anesthesia. This is “numbing” medication that is injected into the gum line in the area that requires treatment. Local anesthesia doesn’t affect your ability to stay awake. Also, the numbing effects wear off with no side effects.

What Does dental sedation Feel Like?

As mentioned above, many people report feeling more relaxed. Nitrous oxide doesn’t impair your ability to think or stay awake, so you’ll be fully conscious while receiving the gas. You may feel as if your limbs are “lighter,” while others report that their bodies feel “heavier” while under sedation. Some people experience a numb sensation inside the mouth. You may feel warm all over, and some people report initial lightheadedness that goes away quickly.

If you become anxious or uncomfortable while receiving sedation, please let the dentist know. The gas can be turned off safely at any time. You will need to receive a few minutes of oxygen once the nitrous is discontinued, and then the mask can be removed from around your mouth.

Using Sedation for Dental Anxiety

Sedation dentistry is designed to help you relax during your cleaning, exam or procedure. We offer safe, effective sedation via the use of a gas that patients inhale as you sit back in our comfortable exam chair. There are many reasons people develop anxiety over dental exams, including the following:

Unpleasant past experience— If you’ve had an unpleasant experience in the past, it can negatively affect how you view going to the dentist now. Our compassionate staff is glad to reintroduce you to professional dental care. When you visit our comfortable office, we will make sure you have a positive experience this time around.

Fear of pain— Fear of pain is a top reason people avoid seeing their dentist. Luckily, advancements in techniques and equipment lead to less discomfort during exams and procedures. Sedation works to help reduce your fear by making you feel calmer and more relaxed.

Embarrassment— Some patients feel ashamed or embarrassment about their teeth and get anxious about having their teeth examined. Exams also require a certain amount of physical closeness with the hygienist or dentist, which can make them feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.

If you feel that you can relate to any of these cases, sedation dentistry might help! Express your concerns to us early on so that we can help create a more positive experience for you.

Get Your Questions Answered About Sedation Dentistry

Don’t let fear and anxiety over a dental visit stop you from getting the care that you need. We’re here to make you as comfortable as possible and provide you with gentle, professional care.

The health of your teeth and your well-being are important to us and we aim to provide you with a comfortable and positive experience when you visit! Do you have questions about our services or whether dental sedation is right for you? Give us a call today at 905-545-4833 or email us at info@centurystonedental.com.

SPEAK TO YOUR DENTIST ABOUT THIS PROCEDURE TODAY!

At Century Stone Dental, we are happy to answer any questions you may have about this procedure. Our dentist will discuss the best bone and gum grafting to get you on your way to a beautiful, functional smile! Call our office to book an appointment for one of our services today. Call at 905-545-4833 or email us at info@centurystonedental.com