{"id":63,"date":"2022-09-06T20:59:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-06T20:59:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.desertspringsdental.com\/blog\/?p=63"},"modified":"2022-10-06T21:46:25","modified_gmt":"2022-10-06T21:46:25","slug":"sedation-dentistry-and-what-it-feels-like","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.desertspringsdental.com\/blog\/2022\/09\/06\/sedation-dentistry-and-what-it-feels-like\/","title":{"rendered":"Sedation Dentistry: What Does It Feel Like?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Millions of people worry about visiting the dentist\u2019s office, often to the point that they forgo regular treatment. Unfortunately, this can spell disaster. But if you\u2019re looking to take control of your uneasy thoughts with the help of sedation dentistry<\/a>, you may wonder what it will feel like. A dentist explains what you can expect when receiving nitrous oxide, IV sedation, or general anesthesia so you feel better prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Going Under: The Expectations of Sedation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The biggest question people ask when considering sedation dentistry is \u201cWill I be asleep the entire time?\u201d In most situations, you will not be fully sedated. Instead, you will remain cognizant enough to respond to the cues of your dental team throughout your visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But each method of sedation causes different effects to occur. Below is an explanation of what you can expect from each of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nitrous Oxide<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Also referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is the mildest form of sedation. Once the mixture is turned on, a nasal mask is placed over your nose, and you\u2019ll begin to inhale. Within minutes, you may become slightly warm but also feel relaxed. Once the mixture is turned off and you begin to breathe regular oxygen, the effects will quickly dissipate, allowing you to resume normal activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

IV Sedation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

IV sedation is often recommended if you suffer from severe dental anxiety or are preparing for a longer appointment. This solution is administered in the dentist\u2019s office, and members of your dental team will monitor you to ensure your safety and comfort. Using the back of your hand or the bend of your elbow, the IV will be put into place so the medication can begin to flow into your bloodstream. In just minutes, you will begin to feel almost euphoric and fully relaxed. Your nerves will be calm, allowing your dentist to perform the necessary treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the effects do take the remainder of the day to dissipate, you must have someone escort you home after your appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

General Anesthesia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The only type of sedation that involves going to sleep is general anesthesia. This is commonly used for individuals who require extensive dental work. Once administered, team members remain by your side to monitor your vitals. You will not remember anything from your visit, and you\u2019ll be required to return home and rest after your appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Who is a Candidate for Sedation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most patients can be considered for sedation dentistry; however, you must meet with your dentist to discuss your medical history. Certain conditions may cause any one of these solutions to be less effective, such as respiratory illness or allergies to certain medications. If you are taking specific prescriptions, they can cause a potentially harmful reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you do not possess any of these issues, you\u2019re likely to be a candidate if you suffer from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n