Professional Dental Sedation for a Better Experience

Does fear or anxiety keep you from regular dental visits? Whether it is dental phobia or pain or discomfort, sedation dentistry is a new type of dentistry that can help you and your loved ones.

Everyone has a unique level of tolerance for pain and discomfort during their dental procedures. With new safe solutions for stress-free, comfortable dental care, you will be able to walk away from your dental visits without any painful memories thanks to sedation dentistry. Some people prefer complete sedations while others want nothing more than some local anesthesia. At White Pine Dental in Murray UT, we understand your fears and will work with you to provide the best experience possible. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today. 

When to Choose Oral Conscious Sedation

The choice of dental sedation is not required or limited for specific symptoms, however, people who commonly opt for sedation typically fall into one or more of the following categories.

• Fear of visiting the dentist
• Anxiety around dentists
• Bad experience with dental work in the past
• Extra sensitive gag reflex
• Particularly sensitive oral nerves
• A small mouth that becomes sore during dental work
• Fear of needles or pain
• Difficulty numbing with local anesthetics
• Required extensive dental work in a single visit
• Have back or neck problems
• Difficulty controlling movement

What to Expect From Sedation Dentistry

At White Pine Dental our second highest priority is your comfort (after safety). When brought into our office here is what you can expect. 

Initial Consultation. In your initial consultation, it is important to communicate your past medical history, current medical conditions, and anxiety level is with respect to dental work. If you want sedation dentistry this is a great time to make your wishes known. This will help us pick the best medication for your situation. Higher levels of anxiety often require stronger medications. 

During Procedure.  Through the treatment, your protective reflexes, breathing, and circulation and unaffected by the sedation. Depending on the type of sedation you may or may not fall asleep, although it is common to stay awake. You might feel slightly groggy, but relaxed and unconcerned about the dental procedure. For your safety, we measure vital signs regularly during the procedure. 

Transportation. Due to drowsiness, it is important to have someone with you that can drive you from your dental appointment following sedation to ensure safety. 

Recovery.  It is expected that you will be feeling completely normal within 24 hours of your appointment. Side effects are minimal but some report dry mouth, hiccups, or nausea. If you have any lasting symptoms or questions contact your dentist. 

Additional Types of Dental Sedation

Inhalation Sedation. Laughing gas, as it is commonly termed, is a light dental sedation option that provides minimal anxiety reduction and higher levels of painkiller. It is administered through a mask and produces a state of relaxation to help you through the dental procedure. It is an inexpensive method of sedation that is often recommended if you're looking for peace and comfort from pain instead of anxiety and fear of the dentist.

Oral Conscious Sedation. Conscious sedation combines laughing gas and a sedative-hypnotic medication that is taken orally. This type of sedation provides greater levels of comfort but will often require a prior evaluation in your consultation and an escort with you the day of the procedure. 

IV Sedation. This type of sedation is similar in function and strength to oral conscious sedation, except that the medication is administered through an IV to "put you to sleep." It generally takes effect faster and is generally suggested for patients needing shorter appointments and that do not have a fear of needles.