New Patients (843) 371-5480

Current Patients (843) 571-7951

811 St. Andrews Blvd, Ste B Charleston, SC 29407

Sedation Dentistry Charleston, SC

Sedation DentistryAn Overview

West Ashley Family Dentistry offers nitrous oxide sedation dentistry for patients who suffer from a fear of the dentist or dental anxiety. Dental anxiety is a condition that prevents people from getting the care they need and is one of the leading factors in poor oral health among adults today.

We have learned about many reasons why people suffer from this type of anxiety. A few of these reasons include:

  • Fear of pain
  • Fear of injections, needles, or sharp objects
  • Fear or generalized anxiety in a medical setting
  • Fear of loud noise, often associated with a dental drill

Sedation dentistry can also be the solution for patients who dislike the loss of control during the appointment, who are embarrassed, or who have a strong gag reflex.

Our dentists often hear stories about events that happened to the patient as a child at a dentist appointment that has scarred them for life. Where ever the fear, anxiety, or other issue stems from, it is important to seek help from our general dentists so you can gain and maintain optimal oral health.

The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

People who have avoided the dentist for years now have the ability to get their oral health back on track. Contrary to what many people think, dental anxiety is manageable, especially at West Ashley Family Dentistry in Charleston. Our dentist office is a judgment-free zone and we will work with any patient to help them receive the care they need.

Nitrous oxide sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to help patients receive dental care. It allows us to give our patients the dental care they need without fear or anxiety. More benefits include:

  • Enhances the effectiveness of local anesthetic
  • Decreases gag reflex
  • Alleviates anxiety
  • Eliminates joint and muscle soreness
  • More treatments can be performed in a few visits
  • Faster treatment time
  • You won’t suffer from agonizing memories

 

Sedation Dentistry What to Expect

Avoiding the dentist can often lead to complex concerns, including tooth loss. Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn work with patients who experience anxiety on an individual basis to help them get back a healthy smile and achieve their cosmetic goals.

West Ashley Family Dentistry offers nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas”. It is administered using a small mask that fits over your nose during the treatments. It will not put you to sleep but will put you in a deep state of relaxation.

You will be able to communicate with the dental staff and respond to basic commands. This type of sedation offers several key benefits beyond enabling you to achieve your oral health goals pain-free:

  • Laughing gas is inhalation sedation, making it easy to administer and there is no need for needles or injections
  • Fast-acting, it takes effect quickly and wears off just as fast, making it possible for patients to drive themselves to and from our office
  • Laughing gas is an odorless gas and will not bother those sensitive to certain smells and is completely safe

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

How long does dental sedation last?

On average, dental sedation lasts between four to six hours. Many patients may feel out of it, or numb for up to 24 hours after their procedure. It is recommended that pettiest have someone drive them home, and care for them for 24 hours after being sedated.

What are the side effects of sedation dentistry?

The main side effect associated with dental sedation is feeling extremely drowsy and out of it. Some patients may report their mouth feeling dry, dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Patients may also experience low blood pressure and little to no recollection of the procedure.

What does dental sedation feel like?

After undergoing dental sedation many patients do not remember much from their procedure. Most patients fall asleep, and wake up feeling a little bit drowsy or out of it. It is recommended to take the day to rest after being put under dental sedation.

Is dental sedation safe?

Yes, dental sedation is safe. We will recommend the right type of dental sedation for you based on your medical and oral health needs. Sedation is also safe for patients of all ages and pregnant women.

Are dental sedation and anesthesia the same?

These different techniques may be used during dental procedures, but are not the same. Under dental sedation, patients will feel relaxed and anxiety-free. Anesthesia is meant to block pain and discomfort during dental treatments.

Will I be asleep under dental sedation?

Not every type of dental sedation will lead to sleep. Most of the time, patients under IV sedation will fall asleep. Many patients will stay conscious but relaxed under nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation.