Sedation For Dentistry
At Embrace Dental in SE Calgary, our goal is to make each of your dental experiences as pleasant as possible.
We understand that dental anxiety and fears are real. We can consider different types of sedation for dentistry to help you receive the treatment you need if you have a negative association with the dental office.
What is Sedation for Dentistry?
Sedation for dentistry refers to the use of medication to make patients feel more comfortable and relaxed during dental procedures. Sedation doesn't usually cause you to fall asleep unless you’re under general anesthesia.
Sedation also comes in different levels, which we can adjust depending on the strength or dosage that you need. We use sedation when performing complex or lengthy procedures, or when patients need help to relax during treatments.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
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Mild sedation
Mild or minimal sedation makes you feel more relaxed but you’re completely awake throughout the procedure. You can receive this type of sedation orally or through inhalation.
One common example of a mild sedative is nitrous oxide or ‘laughing gas.’ Nitrous oxide is colourless and odorless. It’s administered through a mask that you wear over your nose.
Nitrous oxide starts to take effect within minutes. It doesn’t make you laugh, but it does help you feel calm throughout the procedure.
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Moderate sedation
Moderate sedation includes oral and intravenous (IV) sedation. Your dentist may provide you with a pill to take hours before your procedure. For IV sedation, your dentist injects the sedative into your vein.
Both sedatives may cause you to feel drowsy, but you’ll still be awake. You’ll still be able to respond to your dentist’s instructions but you may have little to no recollection of the procedure.
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Deep sedation
Deep sedation is used if you need a strong sedative. In this state, you’re likely to be unconscious and may need equipment to help you breathe.
Once your procedure is complete and the sedation wears off, you likely won’t remember what happened. Your dentist may administer deep sedation if you’re undergoing a complex procedure.
For both moderate and deep sedation, you need someone to take you to the dental office and keep you company until you get back home safely.
Who can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can be helpful for the following patients:
- Those with low pain tolerance.
- Those with a strong gag reflex.
- Those with negative dental experiences.
- Those with sensitive teeth.
- Those undergoing complex or lengthy procedures.
- Those with dental fears or anxiety.
- Those who are having trouble getting numbed.
- Very young patients who are unable to sit still during procedures.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is safe and effective. Consult with your dentist in SE Calgary if you feel you can benefit from it. Here are some of the benefits of using sedation:
- Makes you feel calm and relaxed during procedures
- Lets you receive dental treatments that you need in one visit
- Shortens appointment time
- Allows for adjustments or personalization to match your needs
- Helps your dental team perform procedures more efficiently
- Encourages you to see the dentist regularly
Which Type of Sedation is Right for Me?
If you’re nervous about seeing the dentist and have been delaying treatments due to anxiety or fear, you’re likely an ideal candidate for sedation.
To find out which type of sedation is right for your needs, we recommend talking to the dentist about your concerns. So, if you have questions, please feel free to get in touch with us at Embrace Dental here at SE Calgary.
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