Sedation Dentistry – Don’t Let Nervousness Impact Your Dental Health

About 80% of Americans experience some form of dental anxiety. Our options for sedation dentistry provide a safe and effective way to receive the treatment you need while minimizing stress and discomfort. At Skyline Smiles, we provide sedation dentistry to both children and adults.
Sedation Dentistry Q & A
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax during dental treatment. Most sedation allows you to remain awake throughout treatment. You’re still aware of your surroundings and can follow your dentist’s instructions, but there’s no risk of pain or discomfort. Sedation dentistry falls into several categories based on the strength of the medication you receive. These categories include minimal sedation, moderate sedation, deep sedation, and general anesthesia.
What are the types of sedation dentistry?
Skyline Smiles offers several types of sedation dentistry, including:
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the most popular type of sedation dentistry. You inhale it through a mask that fits over your nose and mouth. Nitrous oxide is fast-acting, and it makes you feel relaxed and at ease throughout treatment. It also wears off quickly, so you can drive home following your procedure.
Oral sedation
Oral sedation requires you to take prescription medicine prior to your appointment. On the morning of your procedure, you swallow a pill. About 45 minutes to an hour later, the medication kicks in. During treatment, you’re drowsy but still awake. Afterward, you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home.
IV sedation
IV sedation administers medication through a needle and into a vein. Like nitrous oxide, IV sedation is fast-acting. Throughout your dental procedure, Skyline Smiles adjusts the level of medication, ensuring you remain comfortable and relaxed throughout.
General anesthesia
If you need to undergo a complex oral procedure or you suffer from extreme anxiety, Skyline Smiles might recommend general anesthesia. General anesthesia puts you to sleep. Once you wake up, you’ll have no recollection of the procedure.
What type of sedation dentistry will work best?
To determine the type of sedation dentistry that will most benefit you or your child, Skyline Smiles conducts an oral exam and reviews your oral health history. They also ask about any prescription medications, supplements, or vitamins you or your child take regularly, and if you have any allergies or chronic health problems like high blood pressure or diabetes. After gathering the necessary information, Skyline Smiles develops a sedation dentistry plan to align with your budget.
To schedule an appointment, book online, or call the office at (661) 228-6077 to speak with a caring member of the administrative staff today.