Pediatric dentist examining child teeth with dental explorer and mirror.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is a term used for dental services that are performed while the patient is under a mild sedative. The reason that sedation dentistry is so popular is because some dental patients tend to have some anxiety around visiting the dentist. Your dentist in North Little Rock, AR offers sedation dentistry for patients who request it.

Is Laughing Gas the Same as Sedation Dentistry?

Yes, laughing gas is just the old term for what we now refer to as sedation dentistry. It got the name laughing gas because of the way that the sedative makes people feel; lighthearted and in a good mood. Instead of feeling tense, patients on laughing gas feel relaxed and often humorous.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is safe for the vast majority of the population, including for children. Of course, if you have any special concerns, or special underlying health conditions, certainly bring those up with your physician so you can be put at ease about the safety of sedation dentistry.

How Does Sedation Dentistry Make You Feel?

The sedative used is very, very mild; so much so that it’s nearly imperceptible. The only thing that may be noticeable is that fears dissipate and the body relaxes. Patients sometimes compare it to the feeling you might get after you arrive home after a long day at work, or how relaxed you feel when you climb into a hot tub, get a massage or get into bed at night with a good book.

Finally, sedation dentistry has no lingering after effects. After receiving dental work with sedation dentistry, you can drive yourself home, return to work and go about your day as usual.

Now that you know that sedation dentistry in North Little Rock, AR is safe, you can book your next dental appointment! Contact us by phone or online to schedule your booking today!

woman receiving sedation dentistry

The Three Types of Sedation Dentistry

If you are anxious about going to the dentist or need a significant amount of dental work done, you might want a dentist in Little Rock, AR that offers sedation dentistry.

The Three Types of Sedation Dentistry

Here are the three most common types of sedation dentistry, from minimal, to moderate, to deep sedation.

1. Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, which is usually called laughing gas, is a minimal and light form of sedation dentistry where you will remain awake during the procedure. The dentist places a mask over your nose, and you breathe the nitrous oxide gas which will make you relax. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly after the dentist removes the mask.

2. Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is a moderate type of sedation dentistry in Little Rock, AR, and it requires a prescription for the oral sedation pill. You can get this from the dentist. The sedation pill will make you drowsy—sometimes drowsy enough to fall asleep. However, it won’t make you so drowsy that you can’t be easily awakened if the dentist needs your cooperation with something. After the procedure, it could take several hours for the sedation to wear off.

3. Intravenous (IV) Sedation

IV sedation is a deep sedation method. With IV sedation, the dentist will insert an IV into a vein in your arm. The IV provides a steady flow of sedation medication throughout the entire procedure. IV sedation puts you to sleep, so you will be unconscious throughout the procedure. But you don’t have to worry because the dentist will monitor your vital signs closely and make sure you are breathing properly through the oxygen mask.

What’s Next?

If you need a dentist in Little Rock, AR that offers sedation dentistry, please Contact Mounds Dental Care today. We offer personalized treatments using state-of-the-art dentistry services. And we look forward to providing you with exceptional dental care in a warm and welcoming environment.

woman with dentist, in dental chair

Should I Consider Sedation Dentistry?

Are you nervous about seeing the dentist in North Little Rock, AR? You’re not alone – many people get anxious when they think about going to the dentist. At Mounts Dental Care, we offer sedation dentistry to patients who have difficulty controlling their dental anxiety. We also provide tips to nervous patients who want to get through their appointment without assistance from sedation dentistry. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the use of a moderate amount of sedation during a dental procedure to alleviate feelings of fear or anxiousness about the dental procedure. Sedation dentistry can also alleviate discomfort during the dental procedure. Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to help patients who might otherwise avoid the dentist because they’re feeling anxious.

Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Your dentist can help you decide if you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry. If you avoid making appointments with the dentist because of your dental anxiety, then your dentist may recommend sedation dentistry. Contact your dentist at Mounts Dental Care to determine whether sedation dentistry is right for you.

What Else Can I Do to Calm My Nerves for Dental Appointments?

You can do many things to calm your nerves before and during your dental appointment. Some suggestions:

  • Engage in mindfulness and breathing exercises before and during your appointment
  • Listen to calming music on headphones while the appointment is taking place
  • Bring a friend or family member to wait with you in the lobby of the dental office

Have more questions about sedation dentistry in North Little Rock, AR? Call Mounts Dental Care to get answers.