Sedation Dentist – Buda, TX
Breathe Easy at the Dentist
A lot of people aren’t exactly fans of going to the dentist. In fact, some are downright terrified! We fully empathize with our dentistry patients who struggle with dental phobia, which is why we offer sedation dentistry as a proven way to calm their nerves. With it, even the most anxious person can finally relax while in the dental chair. Keep reading to learn more before you visit our trusted sedation dentist in Buda, TX.
Why Choose Buda Dental Professionals for Sedation Dentistry?
- IV Sedation Available In-House
- Same-Day Emergency Care
- Fun, Relaxing Dental Office Atmosphere
Oral Conscious Dental Sedation
Are you one of many who experience dental anxiety? You're not alone. While it's natural to feel nervous about visiting the dentist, you shouldn’t let fear affect your oral health care. Luckily, our team provides oral conscious sedation to help calm your nerves during any dental procedure. This allows us to effectively perform treatments, potentially addressing years of damage or neglect in just one visit. To learn more about this method, continue reading!
What is Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is a method used by dentists to help patients relax during dental procedures without the need for needles or face masks. It's often recommended for adults who experience nervousness, anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or any discomfort in the treatment chair. Typically, the dentist prescribes a small pill (i.e., Valium, Ativan, or Halcion) which the patient takes upon arrival at the practice or just before their appointment. The effects of the sedative kick in within about 15 minutes, providing long-lasting relaxation throughout the procedure.
How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Work?
This medication provides a deeply relaxed and calm state to patients throughout their appointments. Usually, a trusted friend or family member is needed to drop you off and pick you up as the effects of the sedative linger throughout the procedure.
Once the medication takes effect, you’ll remain conscious but deeply relaxed, allowing you to respond to instructions while feeling at ease. Many patients even find that they cannot remember the details of their appointment after the sedative wears off, which can be beneficial for those experiencing severe dental anxiety. Throughout the procedure, our team will closely monitor your safety to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.
Are You a Good Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?
You might be a good candidate for oral conscious sedation if you:
- Experience dental fear, anxiety, or nervousness
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Regularly reschedule appointments due to anxiety about potential bad news
- Struggle with keeping your mouth open or sitting in the treatment chair
- Require multiple treatments in one appointment
- Have had negative dental experiences in the past
Oral conscious sedation can help alleviate your discomfort and ensure a more relaxed and positive dental experience.
Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation
Nitrous oxide can be mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a mask or nosepiece. It only takes about three to five minutes for the effects to kick in, during which you’ll be in a state of euphoria where the sights and sounds of the dental office will not bother you. After your treatment, we’ll give you pure oxygen to help you flush out any remaining nitrous oxide. In just a few minutes, you’ll be alert enough to drive yourself home or back to work.
Learn More About Nitrous Oxide Sedation
IV Sedation
IV sedation is the deepest form of conscious sedation available in dentistry. The sedative medications are administered directly to your bloodstream, so you’ll feel the effects quickly. We can change the level of sedation at any time to help you remain comfortable throughout your visit. This type of dental sedation is often the best choice for anyone who is severely afraid or anxious about visiting the dentist, or anyone who’s planning on having a lengthy dental procedure done.
What Is IV Sedation?
Hence the name, IV sedation is administered directly into the bloodstream. This allows you to feel the effects of the medication almost instantaneously. You will remain awake throughout your procedure, but you may not remember anything because you will be in such a deep state of relaxation. During your procedure, we will closely monitor your vitals to make sure you are safe. After your procedure, the effects of the medication will take some time to wear off, so you should arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home.
Who Is a Good Candidate for IV Sedation?
IV sedation is commonly used for oral surgeries and long procedures. It can help to lessen high levels of anxiety and fears associated with the dental office. Additionally, IV sedation is helpful for those who have a sensitive gag reflex, TMJ dysfunction (TMD), and neuromuscular issues that can make it challenging to keep their mouth open for long periods. Before your procedure begins, we will discuss your anxiety levels, health history, and any medications that you are taking so we can rule out possible complications.
What Are the Benefits of IV Sedation?
Here are some of the ways that IV sedation can benefit you:
- The effects set in quickly because the medication is administered intravenously.
- We control the flow of medications, giving our patients a constant state of relaxation.
- IV sedation prevents additional stress-related memories associated with the dentist.
- Patients can receive essential oral healthcare despite their phobia of the dentist.