Sedation Dentistry Annapolis, MD
Discover the benefits of sedation for dentistry.
Our dedicated team strives to ensure every patient is comfortable and relaxed from the moment they arrive at our Annapolis dental practice. We understand that some patients experience severe dental anxiety or phobia and need extra help relaxing during their dental visits. For anxious patients, those who have sensitive teeth or gums, or those in need of extensive or multiple treatments, we offer multiple options for sedation dentistry.
We invite patients from Annapolis and the surrounding communities to contact West Annapolis Family Dentistry and her knowledgeable team to find out more about dental sedation and to determine which option is right for by scheduling an appointment today.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide sedation has been used since the 1800s and offers patients a mild sedative effect. Often referred to as laughing gas because of its “euphoric” effect, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a nasal mask, and the dosage is adjusted continuously throughout treatment allowing patients to remain comfortable from start to finish. The effects of nitrous oxide are fast acting allowing us to begin treatment right away, and the effects also abate within about half an hour. Patients are able to drive themselves to and from their appointment and resume daily activities directly following their visit.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Patients who are in need of a stronger, longer-lasting sedative, those who experience severe dental anxiety that makes leaving home for the dentist a challenge, and those in need of multiple treatments in a single visit, may want to consider oral conscious sedation. Patients who choose this sedation method should plan to have a friend or family member drive them to and from our practice. At a predetermined time prior to leaving home, patients take a sedative pill that begins to take effect within half an hour. The effects of oral conscious sedation can last as much as 24 hours after the initial dosage, so patients should plan rest and recovery time accordingly.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation
The strongest form of sedative we offer, intravenous (IV) sedation offers the best qualities of both of our other options. Like nitrous oxide, the sedative is administered under the supervision of our dentist and team for optimal safety, the effects are fast acting, and the dosage can be adjusted easily to ensure optimal comfort throughout treatment. IV sedation offers significantly more sedative effect than nitrous oxide and is often stronger than oral conscious sedation. Patients typically remain awake during treatment, but they may dose. Like oral conscious sedation, IV sedation causes patients to be deeply relaxed for an extended period of time. Patients should plan to have a trusted friend or family member drive them to and from their appointment.
