Sedation Dentistry in Sun City Center, FL
Jacobs and Thatcher Dentistry provides sedation dentistry in Sun City Center, FL, including nitrous oxide and conscious oral sedation. Call 813-634-1932 to learn more or request an appointment online.
What Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
To help patients who suffer from dentophobia or anxiety about receiving dental treatment, Jacobs and Thatcher Dentistry offers nitrous oxide sedation. Commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide has been used for hundreds of years to provide conscious sedation to patients.
Nitrous oxide is a gas made of nitrogen and oxygen that patients inhale through a mask placed over the nose. As an inhalable sedative, no needles or shots are required. The effects of the gas take effect almost immediately, helping patients to relax while dental treatments are being performed by your dentist.
You are awake during your dental treatment, but the gas creates a feeling of euphoria. You may not remember your dental treatment once it is complete. The effects of laughing gas wear off just minutes after the nasal mask is removed. You will be able to drive yourself home after your appointment and resume your normal activities immediately.
Who is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Patients who are fearful of going to the dentist should talk with their doctor about nitrous oxide sedation. Patients who suffer from anxiety about seeking necessary dental care may also be excellent candidates for nitrous oxide sedation. Likewise, patients who have extremely sensitive teeth, those who have a strong gag reflex, those who are fearful of needles, or the sounds of dental tools may be great candidates for nitrous oxide.
Patients who experience feelings of being unable to sit still, or claustrophobic in a dental chair may also wish to speak with their dentist about nitrous oxide. Patients with special needs may find nitrous oxide sedation makes dental appointments less stressful.
Laughing gas is considered a very safe sedation option, but side effects are possible. Although uncommon, some patients may experience side effects after nitrous oxide sedation including headaches, nausea, shivering, fatigue, vomiting, and dizziness.
What Is Conscious Oral Sedation?
Conscious oral sedation is a prescription medication that you will take approximately one hour before your dental appointment. If you choose conscious oral sedation, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. Sedative medications provide a sense of ease and help to reduce or eliminate anxiety.
Common medications used for conscious oral sedation include anti-anxiety medications such as Valium, Ativan, and medications belonging to the same class of drugs.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Conscious Oral Sedation?
Patients who experience severe anxiety or fear of dental appointments should talk with their dentist about conscious oral sedation. While safe, the medications used for conscious oral sedation can be contraindicated with other medications, so you must notify your dentist of all medications you take. You should also inform your dentist of any underlying health conditions.
It is important to be aware that the effects of the sedative medication can be felt for hours after your treatment is completed, so you will need someone to accompany you to your appointment and from your appointment. If you receive conscious oral sedation, you should not operate heavy machinery, drive a vehicle, or drink any alcohol.