Relax During Your Dental Visit
Itās common to feel nervous about dental visits ā many children and adults struggle through their appointments due to pain or fear. Many people find even their regular dental cleanings uncomfortable, not to mention other procedures.
Patients who suffer from dental anxiety find it nearly impossible to attend their dental appointments due to these overwhelming feelings. This can be incredibly problematic as dental visits not only help keep your mouth free of decay but also serves as a time for us to check for more serious problems like oral cancers and periodontal disease.
At State Street Smiles, we want you to feel comfortable when you come to our Hackensack, NJ office. Dr. Jackson is happy to offer sedation dentistry to New Jersey patients from the Teterboro, Maywood, Teaneck, and surrounding areas. Dental appointments are crucial to your overall wellness and are designed to improve your oral health. If fear and anxiety are keeping you from that, weāre here to help. We provide several dental sedation options in our office with the help of a professional anesthesiologist.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistryĀ is the use of medication to relax patients during dental procedures. While sedation may imply that youāll be asleep, youāll generally be conscious unless youāre under general anesthesia. Sedation dentistry helps many patients relax during their appointments and makes your procedure go by quicker without pain, anxiety, and fear. Depending on your procedure and your medical history, we may use different levels of sedation.
You wonāt feel pain or anxiety during your procedure due to sedation, so you can relax. Most patients donāt remember their procedure, even with lower levels of sedation. You may feel a little drowsy after your procedure, so youāll need to make sure someone else you can trust can drive you home.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
This low-level sedation can be used for most types of dental visits. Though itās often referred to as laughing gas, it wonāt actually make you laugh. Youāll simply feel very relaxed, your pain will be eased, and your appointment will pass by more quickly.
Nitrous oxide can be used for both adults and children safely, with no side effects. Our fully qualified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the appointment and make sure you or your child is completely safe during the procedure.
IV Sedation
For a stronger sedation option, we can use intravenous (IV) sedation. Our board-certified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the appointment to make sure youāre safe while your dentist focuses on performing the procedure.
You wonāt feel any pain and you likely wonāt remember the procedure at all. If youāre going to have IV sedation, youāll need to make sure and bring someone else with you who can drive you home because youāll feel drowsy afterward.
General Anesthesia (Hospital Sedation)
If you or your child requires more sedation, we can bring you into the hospital for the procedure so a specially-trained anesthesiologist can monitor the anesthesia levels so he can focus on delivering high-quality dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sedation dentistry be used for routine cleanings?
Yes, sedation dentistry can be used for routine cleanings if a patient experiences significant dental anxiety or has a strong gag reflex. While sedation is typically reserved for more complex procedures, patients who have an extreme fear of the dentist or discomfort during cleanings can benefit from mild sedation methods, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedation. These options help patients relax without fully putting them to sleep, making routine cleanings more comfortable. Always consult your dentist to determine whether sedation is appropriate for your situation.
Does sedation dentistry affect my memory of the procedure?
Yes, certain types of sedation, like oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, can cause mild to moderate memory loss during the procedure. This effect, called “anterograde amnesia,” makes it difficult for patients to recall the details of their dental visit. While you’ll remain conscious and able to follow instructions, sedation helps you feel relaxed and detached from the experience. Many patients appreciate this memory loss, as it minimizes their recollection of any anxiety or discomfort they may have felt during the procedure, leading to a more positive overall dental experience.
Can sedation dentistry help with a strong gag reflex?
Yes, sedation dentistry is highly effective for patients with a strong gag reflex. The gag reflex can make dental work uncomfortable or even impossible for some individuals. Sedation, especially nitrous oxide or oral sedation, helps relax the throat muscles and suppresses the gag reflex, allowing the dentist to perform treatments without interference. Patients who experience severe gagging during procedures find sedation particularly beneficial for longer or more invasive treatments, like impressions or deep cleanings, making the experience more comfortable and manageable.
Can I drive myself home after sedation dentistry?
This will depend on what form of sedation is chosen for your procedure. For a mild sedative like nitrous oxide, where the effects will fade quickly, and you may be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. However, for oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, which have lingering effects on coordination and judgment, it’s essential to have someone else drive you home. These alternate forms of sedation will leave you in an impaired state so that you will not be able to drive yourself home or operate a vehicle for several hours following your procedure. Ensure you have arranged for a trusted friend or family member to drive you.
Can children undergo sedation dentistry?
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe for children, especially those who experience dental anxiety or require complex procedures. Pediatric dentists often use mild sedation, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to help children feel calm and comfortable during treatments. For more invasive procedures, oral sedation or IV sedation may be used. Parents must discuss their child’s medical history and any concerns with the dentist to ensure sedation is administered safely and effectively. Proper monitoring ensures a smooth experience, helping children maintain positive associations with dental visits.
Does sedation dentistry require special preparation?
Yes, certain forms of sedation dentistry require special preparation. For oral sedation or IV sedation, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure to reduce the risk of nausea or complications. You’ll also need someone to drive you home after the procedure. Your dentist may provide specific instructions on medications to avoid before sedation. For nitrous oxide, preparation is minimal, and you can typically resume normal activities right after the procedure. Always follow your dentist’s guidelines to ensure a safe and smooth sedation experience.
Can sedation dentistry reduce jaw discomfort during long procedures?
Yes, sedation dentistry can help reduce jaw discomfort during lengthy procedures. Patients undergoing extended treatments, such as multiple fillings or full-mouth restorations, may experience jaw strain from keeping their mouth open for an extended time. Sedation relaxes the muscles, making it easier to open the mouth without discomfort. Additionally, sedation helps reduce overall tension, allowing the procedure to proceed more smoothly with less physical strain. Patients prone to TMJ issues or jaw fatigue benefit from sedation, as it minimizes the risk of post-procedure soreness or stiffness.
