Sedation Dentistry in Mountlake Terrace, WA

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves using safe medications to help patients relax while undergoing dental work. We understand that some of our patients may be nervous about visiting us, and we want to help make these patients comfortable. Our sedation dentistry services enable patients with anxiety and phobia to complete dental appointments and preserve their oral health.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

• Helps anxious patients worry less about their appointments in advance
• Allows patients with strong gag reflexes to undergo comfortable dental procedures
• Makes procedures safer
• Enables the dentist to work quickly, getting more done in one appointment
• Helps long appointments go by quickly
• Protects anxious patients' oral health by allowing them to attend all recommended dental appointments
• Saves money and time in the long run

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is an inhaled gas that flows through a mask placed over your nose. The dentist adjusts the flow of nitrous oxide through the mask to produce the correct sedation level to help you feel calm but conscious and able to respond to their requests. The gas displaces a small amount of oxygen in your body and may create a feeling of euphoria.

At the end of the procedure, you will quickly return to normal. The dentist gradually replaces nitrous oxide with oxygen to clear your system. You will be able to drive yourself back from the appointment and return to your daily activities.

Conscious Oral Sedation

Conscious oral sedation involves taking anti-anxiety medication before your appointment. Many dentists prescribe benzodiazepines. They may be in pill or liquid form.

You typically take the medication about an hour before arriving at the office. This timing means that you need a responsible adult driver to bring you to and from the appointment.

The medication dose is just enough to calm your anxiety but keeps you able to answer questions and follow directions during the appointment. Nevertheless, you will be unable to drive for the rest of the day and should quietly rest at home until the medication has fully worn off.

Are You A Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Most of our patients are good candidates for sedation dentistry. Anxious patients often ask for sedation, but patients who simply want to relax during a long appointment can also request it.

If you have the following medical conditions, you should speak to your physician for clearance before undergoing dental sedation:

• Breathing problems or nasal congestion
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Sleep apnea
• Heart disease
• Pregnancy
• Medication allergies and interactions