Relax with Sedation Dentistry

Studies indicate that somewhere between 9% to 15% of Americans put off seeing their dentist out of fear. These citizens would prefer to endure painful, infected, discolored, and damaged teeth than risk what they fear will be an uncomfortable and unpleasant experience in a dental office. And, if and when they finally do agree to go to the dentist, they dread it all week. (Don’t worry, dentists don’t take it personally.)

Sedation dentistry is a way to provide a more relaxing experience for those patients who might otherwise avoid dental care because of anxiety or fears. Sedation dentistry, oftentimes referred to as “relaxation” or “anxiety-free” dentistry, s now available at thousands of dentists’ offices, including that of Drs. Clement and Kamron Monroe of Pinehurst, NC.

Is Sedation Dentistry Right For You?

Sedation dentistry may be for you if you refuse or delay scheduling dental visits due to anxiety. Many times, that anxiety can be traced back to:

• Negative past experiences at a dental office
• Fear of pain or gagging/choking
• Extreme anxiety stemming from the sounds and smells of dental office
• Dislike of feeling numb
• Fear of feeling or being out of control

Sedation dentistry may also be appropriate for people who:

• Have difficulty sitting still in a dentist chair
• Require a large amount of dental work completed
• Have a low pain tolerance

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, popularly known as “laughing gas,” is an effective sedative gas that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a mask that fits over the patient’s nose. Nitrous Oxide will not put you to sleep. Under its’ influence, you will still be able to communicate with the dentist, but it will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable. The effects of the gas wear off quickly once the mask has been removed, and you should be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation will calm you and reduce your sensitivity to pain. You will be aware of your surroundings and will be able to hold a conversation, but you’ll be less responsive to what is happening. You will probably also feel drowsy and may even feel like napping during the procedure.

The medication that is most often used for oral sedation is Halcion, which is part of the same drug family as Valium, and it’s usually taken about an hour before the procedure. Find a friend or family member to drive you home if you have taken oral sedation.

Sedation Dentistry with Drs. Monroe & Monroe

We strive to make sure all of our patients feel comfortable at Monroe & Monroe in Pinehurst, NC. Our relaxing atmosphere combined with our  professional and friendly staff, have helped hundreds of patients feel more comfortable at the dentist. Dr. Kamron Monroe has completed training in the administration of conscious sedation and is a member in the College of Sedation in Dentistry (MeCSD). Contact our office online or call us at 910.420.3670 for more details and to schedule your appointment.