Sedation dentistry: calm and comfortable dental care in Nashua, NH
If you have a fear of the dentist, you are not alone. In fact, it is estimated that more than 60 percent of people suffer from some degree of dental phobia. At Nashua Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry in Nashua, NH, we understand that not all patients love sitting in the dental chair. We take several measures to ensure that you have a relaxing, comfortable experience whether you are here for a routine cleaning or more extensive treatment. That includes the option of sedation dentistry
What is sedation dentistry?
“Sedation dentistry” is a general term encompassing several options for relieving stress, anxiety, and pain during dental visits. We offer four primary variations of sedation. Here at Nashua Cosmetic and restorative dentistry we are happy to offer:
- Oral sedation
- General Anesthesia
- Intravenous (IV) sedation
- Monitored Anesthesia Care
Oral sedation: can be an excellent option for patients who have more mild anxiety or who will be undergoing multiple procedures at the same time. Our dentists will prescribe a medication (pill) that you take at a specific time before your appointment. During your procedure, you may become so relaxed that you fall asleep, which is completely fine. We will wake you gently if we need to ask you a question or give you directions.
General Anesthesia: Total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) is a type of general anesthesia that allows you to sleep through your dental procedures without any awareness or recall. During general anesthesia, you are completely asleep and cannot be aroused. A period of several hours feels like seconds, and you wake up feeling refreshed with minimal side effects. I am beside you the entire time, monitoring you continuously, from the time you fall asleep until you are ready to go home.
Intravenous Sedation: IV sedation is a form of mild to moderate sedation that allows you to relax and possibly sleep through some of your procedures. During IV (conscious) sedation, you are not “asleep” but rather in a more comfortable “semi-awake” state of reduced anxiety. Aware, but very relaxed. You will most likely have some loss of memory of the procedures that were performed because of the amnestic effect of the medications used to provide the sedation. During IV sedation, you are able to respond to verbal commands, or to a light physical touch.
Monitored Anesthesia Care: Monitored anesthesia care (MAC) is a type of anesthesia service in which an anesthesia clinician continually monitors and supports the patient’s vital functions; diagnoses and treats clinical problems that occur; administers sedative, anxiolytic, or analgesic medications if needed; and converts to general anesthesia if required. Approximately one-third of ambulatory anesthesia services for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures in the United States are provided as MAC, often in out-of-operating-room locations.
Who can benefit from sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can be a terrific option for patients who:
- Have dental anxieties
- Would avoid going to the dentist otherwise
- Have an overactive gag reflex
- Will be undergoing multiple treatments or a lengthy procedure
Will I need someone to drive me to and from my appointment?
If you are using sedation, you will need a trusted friend or family member to take you to and from your appointment. That is because the medication is typically taken before your appointment so that it takes effect when you arrive at the dental office, and you may be groggy for some time after your dental procedure is complete.
A comfortable, relaxing dental experience is possible
If you have been looking for a “sedation dentist near me” and live in the Nashua, NH area. The Nashua Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry team is here to help you receive the dental care you need, even if you are a nervous patient or have severe dental anxieties. To schedule your appointment at our practice or talk with a team member about the sedation dentistry options available, call (855) 363-3793.
