Avoiding the Dentist? Here’s How Sedation Dentistry Can Help

So, you don’t like going to the dentist?

Yes, we’re talking to you.

Every time your appointment reminder pops up, you groan and dismiss it quickly, trying to put it out of your mind. You might even find a reason to call and cancel your appointment.

At Smile Design Manhattan in New York City, we get it. We’re not everyone’s favorite place to visit. But we’re not here to judge. We’re actually here to help.

We offer sedation dentistry to help you get the dental treatment you need. Here’s how it works.

What’s sedation dentistry?

Dental fear is real. Up to 73% of American adults are afraid of dental visits, with about 27% saying their fears are severe. Sedation dentistry is a dental specialty that uses medications to help anxious patients relax so they can receive essential dental care.

Before we decide to use sedation, we schedule a consultation to consider your physical and mental health to determine if you would benefit. 

You might be a good candidate for sedation dentistry if you don’t tolerate pain well, have a sensitive gag reflex, or face a significant amount of dental work that requires a longer stay in the dental chair.

What kind of medication does sedation dentistry use?

The type of medication we use depends on why you need sedation and the dental work we’re scheduled to perform. The main medication types include:

Inhaled sedation

This type is the lowest level of sedation. We give you an inhaled sedative — typically nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas — to help your body relax during your procedure. You stay awake, but your body calms down, so you won’t be afraid and on edge.

Oral sedation

With oral sedation, you take a pill about an hour before your procedure. This sedative (Valium or something similar) has a mild to moderate effect; you’re drowsy but conscious. If the medication is strong enough, plan on having someone give you a ride home afterward.

Intravenous (IV) sedation

If you have severe anxiety or require extensive dental work, IV sedation delivers stronger medication directly into your bloodstream, providing deep and immediate relaxation. With this medication, you also should arrange a ride home afterward.

What to expect

We determine the appropriate level of sedation at your initial consultation, and provide the necessary medication at the appropriate time. If you’re taking the pill, plan to do that at home before you arrive; otherwise, we handle things in the office.

Sedation dentistry is an excellent option if you’re putting off dental appointments because you’re nervous. You’re not alone, and we can help. 

To ask our team at Smile Design Manhattan about sedation dentistry, call our Midtown office at 646-278-4579 or schedule a consultation online today.