Sedation Dentistry
We offer advanced sedation dentistry to provide a comfortable, calm, and relaxed experience during any dental procedure. Our team will work closely with you to identify any fears or concerns you may have and determine a treatment option that feels comfortable to you. We provide a wide range of in-house dental services, and our ultimate goal is to ensure your comfort and satisfaction.
Dental Sedation in Auburn, ME
Dental sedation refers to medication designed to reduce physical pain associated with dental treatments or to reduce anxiety and help patients feel more relaxed during the procedure. This makes the experience more pleasant and ensures dental staff can perform their duties more effectively. We offer three types of sedation: nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas), oral sedation, and IV sedation.
Nitrous oxide is the most minimal form of sedation, which is easily administered through a small mask that dispenses a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen. This leaves patients feeling relaxed during the dental procedure.
Oral and IV sedation are forms of moderate sedation. With oral sedation, you will be administered a pill to take the night before and a couple of pills the following day, about an hour before your appointment. You will feel tired and incredibly relaxed and have little to no memory (amnesia) of the procedure. You can still respond to verbal commands and breathe and swallow independently.
IV sedation has the same effect as oral sedation but is recommended for the most anxious patients since medications can be adjusted quickly and more predictable.
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What is laughing gas, and what does it do?
Laughing gas, known as nitrous oxide, is a local sedative. It is colorless, odorless, and known for its fast-acting and reversible effects. It is widely considered a safe method of dental sedation.
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What type of anesthesia are used for dental work?
The three most common types of anesthesia used in dental procedures are local anesthesia, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is a medication injected directly into the affected area, typically the gums around a specific tooth, to numb it. General anesthesia provides a more profound experience and is usually used for more intensive procedures such as tooth extraction, dental implants, or other surgeries. The patient is unconscious during the process and usually has no memory of the procedure. IV sedation is a deeper type of anesthesia that achieves a period of brief sedation with very little memory of the surgery.
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What should I expect with IV Sedation?
IV sedation is an effective method to manage both pain and anxiety during oral surgeries. One of the benefits of IV sedation is that it takes effect quickly and wears off promptly. However, the medicine used is vital, so the patient must arrange for someone to take them home after the procedure.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about sedation dentistry, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
