Fear of the dentist is a fairly common affliction that many patients face. However, excessive or consistent dental anxiety can make taking care of your oral health difficult. Patients with dental anxiety tend to put off their treatment, often leading to worsening dental conditions. But with sedation dentistry in Burlington, NC, many patients who fear the dentist can often get the preventative and early treatment they need. At Fuller Dental, we offer three types of sedation methods for our patients with anxiety.

Understanding the Types of Sedation Dentistry in Burlington, NC

Sedation dentistry is used to help patients feel relaxed or calm during treatment. The different types of sedation all have varying levels of effectiveness and impact for each patient. Your dentist will consult with you and discuss your medical history to determine which method is right for your treatment.

Nitrous Oxide

Also known as Laughing Gas, nitrous oxide is a common sedation method used for routine treatments and procedures. With nitrous oxide, patients inhale the sedation gas through a breathing device placed in their noses prior to treatment. The nitrous oxide is delivered throughout treatment to provide a consistent calming and relaxing effect. Nitrous oxide often wears off very quickly. However, it’s still recommended to have someone drive you to and from your appointment, especially if it’s your first time using it.

Oral Sedation

Patients can also find relaxation through a prescription sedation pill. Patients must take the sedation medication at home before their appointment. Because oral sedation tends to last for a few hours, patients will be required to secure transport to and from the office. Oral sedation methods provide a calming sensation for patients who fear all aspects of a dental visit. They can be useful for those who struggle to maintain their hygiene schedule due to anxiety.

IV Sedation

While nitrous oxide and oral sedation are the most common forms of sedation dentistry, some patients may benefit from IV sedation instead. IV sedation provides a more powerful relaxation effect and often has strong amnesiac properties, so most patients don’t even remember their time in the chair. This method can be beneficial to patients who need to be in treatment for an extended period of time or who suffer from mobility issues.

IV sedation requires extensive training and education to properly administer. Dr. Sarah Cook is fully licensed and certified to provide IV sedation to her patients. During treatment, she will continue to monitor your health to ensure sedation is safe and effective. After treatment, Dr. Cook will continue to monitor your recovery as you return to full consciousness. Because the effects of sedation are so strong, it’s important to have a trusted friend or family member drive you to and from your appointment.

If you fear the dentist, you may not have to suffer from anxiety during your visits. Sedation dentistry could help you remain calm and relaxed during your treatment. Call Fuller Dental today at (336) 290-7401 to schedule a consultation and learn more about our sedation dentistry methods.