Sedation Dentistry Helps Nervous Patients Feel Relaxed at the Dentist
It is estimated that 50% of the population avoids dental care because of anxiety, fear, or lack of time. One bad experience at the dentist can destroy a person’s desire to visit a dental office entirely. Dr. Cheung and our team understand these problems. In addition to a caring chairside manner and sensitivity to every patient’s needs, we offer amenities to take your mind off of dental care. Enjoy a movie or music during your visit. Relax under a warm blanket, and sleep if you like. Should you need medication to help you relax, we offer a diverse selection of options:
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Many people know nitrous oxide as laughing gas. In our Plano dental office, we administer nitrous oxide to enhance patient comfort and relieve anxiety for patients of all ages. After you're comfortably seated in the dental chair, you'll inhale the gas (a nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture) through a face mask. We will control the amount of nitrous you receive to ensure your safety. You will begin to relax and will not recognize pain so that the dentist can perform your dental work while you stay completely comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide subside once we remove your mask, so if nitrous is the only anesthesia you receive, you will be capable of driving yourself home following the visit and can continue your daily activities as normal.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation comes in the form of a prescribed medication, and it is commonly combined with nitrous oxide for a stronger, more calming effect. Our team will provide you with all the information you need for when and where to take your pill. Once the effects begin, patients should enter a deep state of relaxation while still remaining awake and capable of responding to Dr. Cheung. Oral conscious sedation will take some time to wear off, though, so an escort is required.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is relatively similar to oral conscious sedation, but the medication is administered intravenously throughout the procedure. This is ideal because it allows our team to adjust your dosage whenever needed to ensure a completely comfortable experience. The patient will feel very calm, and it’s likely that they won’t even remember anything about the visit once it’s completed and they’ve recovered. Someone will need to take you home afterward and keep an eye on you for the rest of the day following IV sedation.