Sedation
At our South 40 Dental Sexsmith office, we help anxious patients get through their appointment feeling comfortable! Our team works hard to minimize any emotional trauma you may be experiencing during your procedure.
Feeling Nervous About Visiting the Dentist? Let Us Help.
We want you to feel completely comfortable during your dental procedure. If you feel anxiety about visiting the dentist, our team can help put you at ease with a variety of techniques and sedation options.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation is as easy and safe as taking an aspirin. This sedation will help you feel relaxed and at ease. It does not "knock you out" like some other forms of anesthesia.
You will remain awake during your procedure, but you will be in a heightened state of relaxation. For your safety, you will need to have someone drive you to and from the office.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous Oxide, known to many as laughing gas, is the most commonly used form of sedation in dentistry. It is administered by having the patient inhale a specific gas agent, which is carefully monitored by your doctor.
Once the procedure is over, the nitrous oxide will wear off fairly quickly, and you will most likely be able to drive yourself home and return to your daily activities.
Sedation FAQ
Who is a candidate for sedation?
If you have anxiety or fear about going to the dentist, you are a candidate for dental sedation treatment. If you have a fear of pain, have had a traumatic dental experience in the past, or the sounds and smells of a dental office make you nauseous, dental sedation can help you get over your anxiety.
Some people have physical reasons, like a bad gag reflex or very sensitive teeth, which make them a candidate for dental sedation. If you are not sure if you are a candidate for sedation, feel free to ask the dentist.
Will I be unconscious?
No, but you will be in a deep state of relaxation during your treatment and will not feel any pain or anxiety. Depending on which type of sedation you receive, you may not even remember the procedure afterwards.
How long will I be sedated?
Sedation can last anywhere from 2-6 hours depending on the strength of sedative you are given and how long your procedure takes.
Will I be monitored?
Yes, at all times during your sedation someone will be with you. We also monitor your vitals to make sure they remain at a normal level. Safety is of the utmost importance to us.
Are there any long-term effects of sedation?
No. You will feel a little groggy and "out of it" after some forms of sedation, but after a few hours, you will feel like yourself again. You will need to have someone drive you home from your appointment in these cases.
Can sedation be used for any procedure?
Just about any procedure can be performed with sedation. The sedation is not for the procedure itself, but for any anxiety during the procedure. Ask your dentist if sedation is available for a particular procedure.
How many appointments will I need?
In most cases, it only takes two appointments. The first appointment will be a consultation to check your health history and make sure you are a candidate for sedation. The next appointment will be to perform the necessary procedures. This can usually be done in one appointment but may require a follow-up visit.
Will my insurance cover sedation?
In most cases, it will not be covered by your insurance provider. We will review your insurance coverage and let you know if it is covered or not. If it is not covered, we will let you know the cost and, if necessary, we can put together a financing plan for you.
