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Sedation Dentistry MilwaukieMany people have fears when visiting a dentist. Any dental procedure outside routine teeth cleaning checkups can seem somewhat nerve-wracking. Having teeth removed, gum disease treated, or new bridges installed in your mouth can cause a bit of nerves to pop up. To calm you down and make the procedure more comfortable, our dentists at Michael Regan, DMD Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry can prescribe dental sedation to relax you. There are several different types of sedation, and it is crucial to figure out what kind of sedation dentistry is right for your procedure and your comfort level. Your comfort and relaxation are a priority when you come in for visits or have any procedures done. What is Sedation Dentistry?Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with dental anxiety or phobia, allowing them to undergo treatment comfortably and without fear. Levels of SedationSedation can range from mild relaxation techniques to deeper levels of sedation, depending on the patient's needs and the complexity of the procedure. Oral SedationOral sedation involves taking a pill before your procedure. You will be awake during the procedure, but groggy. You should not feel any pain or discomfort during your procedure. Most patients do not remember their procedure. You will feel tired the rest of the day and will need to have someone drive you home. Nitrous OxideNitrous oxide or laughing gas, as most people call it, is a common sedation option. You do not have to remember to take any pills with it, but like oral sedation, it does not truly leave you unconscious. It takes effect very quickly once you start breathing it in. Unlike oral sedation, however, nitrous oxide wears off very quickly. We will typically give you oxygen to breathe in after the procedure to help you clear your lungs. Once the gas is out of your system, you will no longer feel the effects. This means you can drive yourself home and even return to work if your procedure is fairly minor. IV SedationBeing sedated via an IV is the most powerful type of sedation, and it is not typically used for minor procedures. There are two different types of IV sedation. The first, referred to as twilight sedation, makes you sleepy, but you do not become fully unconscious. Patients typically do not remember the procedure and may need assistance getting home after it. General AnesthesiaFull general anesthesia, unlike the other options, does leave you unconscious. It is only done for major oral surgery and requires an anesthetist to administer it. While under anesthesia, you will be connected to several monitors that will track your vital signs. Sedation Dentistry in MilwaukieIf you are coming in for a surgical procedure or if you have concerns about being in pain during your visit at Michael Regan, DMD Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we are more than happy to discuss dental sedation options with you. Several different options will help you relax during your procedure. All of these options are safe and can be used by most patients. If you have any questions about the type of sedation that we offer or what type would work best for you, then please call Michael Regan, DMD Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at 503-654-8283 and our dentist will be happy to help answer all of your questions. |