While it's normal to experience some degree of apprehension about visiting the dentist, advancements in Sedation Dentistry have provided a way for all patients, even those with more significant fear or anxiety, to receive dental treatments with ease, advancing their oral health. From a simple cleaning to more invasive procedures, the level of Sedation Dentistry administered depends on the treatment, as well as the patient's needs. Generally, for patients that have anxiety, a low pain threshold, sensitive teeth, a bad gag reflex, or if treatment required is extensive, sedation dentistry is appropriate and even necessary.

When given by a trusted, reputable dentist, sedation dentistry is safe and effective, allowing patients to receive comfortable care while they are awake (unless deeper sedation is required). Thus, for patients that have avoided the dentist, or are afraid of needing dental work, sedation dentistry provides a path free of fear.

At Seneca Family Dentistry, we believe that sedation dentistry enables us to give patients the highest quality of care while they are relaxed and comfortable.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

As a minimal form of sedation, patients breathe nitrous oxide through a mask that is placed over the nose. Otherwise known as "laughing gas," nitrous oxide "takes the edge off," helping patients relax. Our dentist adjusts the amount of sedation received, which makes this form of sedation safe and effective for children and adults. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, and adult patients may drive themselves home following treatment.

Oral sedation represents another form of sedation dentistry, and may range from minimal to moderate. To better understand, a minimal form of oral sedation is generally in pill form, and may have the same effect as Valium. Usually taken one hour prior to treatment, patients should expect to feel drowsy. If moderate sedation is needed, a larger dose is given. In this case, some patients may relax enough to sleep during treatment.

In some instances, we provide sedation through an IV. As a form of moderate sedation, IV Sedation Dentistry is often referred to as "conscious sedation." Patients are not asleep, and can respond to verbal commands or touch. Yet, patients find that they have little or no memory of the procedure afterward.

Do you have fear or anxiety about visiting the dentist? Contact Seneca Family Dentistry today. With care and compassion, we'll go above and beyond to help you focus on pure relaxation during your dental treatment.