Enjoy Stress-free Dental Care with IV Sedation Dentistry
Are you among the millions of Americans with dental anxiety? Don’t let fear get in the way of your healthy, beautiful smile. IV sedation dentistry in Peterborough, New Hampshire, can help you enjoy dentistry again. Schedule an appointment with Our Town Dental to experience relaxed and stress-free dental care!
Who needs sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses anti-anxiety medication to keep you relaxed when seated in the dental chair. Unlike general anesthesia, most sedation dentistry options don’t make you unconscious. You’ll be awake but won’t be bothered by the moment-to-moment details of your treatment.
Here are reasons to consider sedation dentistry:
- Dental phobia: If the thought of visiting the dentist fills you with anxiety, sedation dentistry can make your experience stress-free. Even with severe dental fear, sedation dentistry can help you receive treatment without distress.
- Extensive dental work: For patients needing lengthy or complex procedures like multiple dental implants, sedation ensures comfort throughout the process. Sedation dentistry allows the doctor to complete extensive work in a single session.
- Strong gag reflex: A sensitive gag reflex can make dental work uncomfortable or even impossible. Sedation relaxes the muscles and reduces the sensitivity of your gag reflex.
Inability to stay still: Some patients may struggle with remaining still during dental procedures. This could be due to conditions such as ADHD, physical discomfort, or simply restlessness. Sedation dentistry induces relaxation, helping you remain still as the dentist works on you.
What is IV sedation?
IV sedation is the strongest sedation available. An anesthesiologist delivers the sedation medication directly into a vein on your hand or arm. You can expect the effects to take place within minutes, and the dosage can be adjusted as necessary.
IV sedation provides deep relaxation but doesn’t make you unconscious. Depending on the level of sedation, you may respond to the dentist’s instructions. However, you’ll have little to no memory of the procedure afterward. Since the sedation effects don’t wear off immediately, you’ll need someone to escort you home. The grogginess continues at home, so take enough rest and avoid alcohol or driving for at least 24 hours.
Is IV sedation safe?
IV sedation is a widely trusted and safe option when administered by an anesthesiologist. During your consultation, the dentist and anesthesiologist will review your full medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications, allergies, or previous experiences with anesthesia. Not everyone is a candidate for IV sedation. Patients with severe respiratory issues, heart problems, etc., may not qualify.
We typically advise patients to avoid eating or drinking for 6–8 hours before the procedure to prevent complications like nausea. If you’re on medications, inform us. Our doctor will advise on whether to pause or adjust your regular dosage.
During treatment, the anesthesiologist will continually monitor your heart rate, oxygen level, blood pressure, etc. Close monitoring ensures any complications are detected and addressed immediately.
What other sedation dentistry options are available?
Sedation dentistry isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative administered through a comfortable nasal mask. The effects of nitrous oxide or laughing gas are almost immediate and wear off once we complete the procedure.
Ready for sedation dentistry?
Experience stress-free dental care with safe sedation options in Peterborough. Whether you’re anxious, need extensive work, or simply want a more comfortable visit, Our Town Dental can help! Call (603) 567-4955 and schedule your consultation with Dr. Jihae Yang.
