What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a practice that uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. This technique is particularly beneficial for those with dental anxiety, a low pain tolerance, or who require extensive work in a single appointment.
At Summit Family Dentistry, we offer three types of sedation to accommodate varying levels of need and comfort:
1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a small mask over your nose. It helps alleviate anxiety but wears off quickly, allowing you to resume your day after your procedure.
2. Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before your appointment to help you feel drowsy and relaxed during the visit. You’ll remain awake but deeply calm, making your dental procedure much more manageable.
3. IV Sedation
For patients requiring a more advanced level of sedation, IV sedation delivers medication directly into the bloodstream for quick and effective relaxation. We often recommend this for complex procedures or patients with significant dental anxiety.
With these tailored sedation options, we ensure every patient can find a level of comfort that works best for them.
Why Consider Sedation Dentistry?
Are you hesitant to visit the dentist due to fear, discomfort, or a prior negative experience? You’re not alone. Millions of people experience dental anxiety, making it a major barrier to maintaining oral health.
Sedation dentistry eliminates the stress of dental procedures while ensuring your oral health doesn’t suffer. Whether you’re worried about needles, dislike the sounds of dental tools, or struggle with a sensitive gag reflex, sedation dentistry lets you stay relaxed and calm throughout your appointment.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
The advantages of sedation dentistry go beyond simply easing anxiety. Here’s why so many Littleton patients are opting for sedation at Summit Family Dentistry:
- Reduced Dental Anxiety: Sedation helps even the most nervous patients feel calm and at ease.
- Enhanced Comfort: Pain sensitivity and gag reflexes are minimized, making the procedure more comfortable.
- Time Efficiency: We can complete larger procedures in fewer visits.
- Improved Oral Health: Sedation helps patients keep up with important preventative care and necessary treatments.
- Positive Dental Experience: A relaxed experience encourages patients to return for regular check-ups.
Sedation dentistry in Littleton can make a difference for patients who avoid necessary dental care.
What to Expect During Your Visit
If you’re new to sedation dentistry, you may wonder what your experience will look like. At Summit Family Dentistry, we ensure the process is simple, seamless, and stress-free.
Initial Consultation
We’ll begin by discussing your health history, concerns, and preferences. This step allows us to determine which sedation option is best for you.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Based on the type of sedation chosen, we’ll provide clear guidelines for preparing for your appointment.
The Sedation Process
On the day of your procedure, our team will administer your chosen sedation option. Whether you inhale nitrous oxide, take oral medication, or receive IV sedation, you’ll feel relaxed and comfortable before treatment begins.
Aftercare
Once your procedure is complete, we will carefully monitor you as the sedation wears off. We recommend arranging a ride home with a friend or family for moderate or IV sedation.
Our compassionate team ensures your safety and comfort are top priorities throughout every step.
Summit Family Dentistry Offers More Than Care
At Summit Family Dentistry in Littleton, we go the extra mile to make dental visits enjoyable. Along with sedation options, we offer a range of amenities to enhance your experience, such as blankets, pillows, headphones, and streaming services to keep you comfortable. Our friendly team will ensure you feel at home whenever you enter our office.
We offer flexible payment options, including CareCredit and Sunbit, to make quality dental care accessible for everyone. Additionally, our membership plan provides exclusive benefits for patients looking for a smart way to maintain their oral health.
Technology is another hallmark of our practice. We deliver precision and efficiency in every treatment with tools like 3D imaging, digital X-rays, laser dentistry, and CEREC technology for same-day crowns.
When you choose Summit Family Dentistry, you’re not just visiting a dentist but joining a community that prioritizes your health and happiness.
