If you've ever skipped visiting the dentist due to fear or anxiety, you should know that we have solutions to help you get the dental care you need with sedation dentistry in North York.
Protecting dental health has never been more critical because there are clear links between periodontal (gum) disease and other systemic health concerns, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, dementia, and stroke. When you promote excellent dental health, you also protect your overall health and well-being.
But what if you're not comfortable visiting a dentist? That's where dental sedation can help! Here's what you should know.
Sedation Dentistry at Emery Village Dental
At Emery Village Dental, we understand that not every patient feels at ease when they visit the dentist, and that's why we offer three different levels of dental sedation for your comfort and to ensure that our patients can always receive the dental care they need.
Here's an overview of the sedation options and treatment for anxiety that we offer at our North York dental clinic.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, combines oxygen and nitrous oxide delivered through an inhalation mask during dental treatment. This is the lightest level of sedation we offer, but it helps "take the edge off" and doesn't leave patients with lingering side effects afterward.
Our dentists can use nitrous oxide to help patients relax during most procedures, as it is safe for adults and children.
IV Sedation
This is the deepest level of sedation we provide, delivered intravenously. Dr. Joo is trained and licensed to deliver IV sedation, and he will monitor your vital signs, heart rate, and medication levels throughout your treatment and adjust the medication as needed.
IV sedation may also help you feel completely relaxed as if you're sleeping, but you'll still be responsive during treatment. You'll need a ride to and from the clinic, and you shouldn't return to work or do normal daily activities after your procedures.
Our dentists can help you choose the type of dental sedation right for your needs before treatment. They'll also discuss what you can expect regarding recovery and side effects to be aware of.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Sedation?
Sedation dentistry can be helpful for patients in these situations:
- Those with dental fear, anxiety, or phobia
- Bad gag reflexes
- Patients with emotional, mental, or physical special needs
- Those who can't sit for long periods
Dental sedation might also be ideal for a patient who needs extensive treatment and wants to complete multiple procedures in one sitting or appointment.
Some of the benefits that sedation dentistry offers are:
- Relief from anxiety
- Efficiency as your dentist can complete procedures quicker
- Comfortable options for those with special needs
- No memory of procedures
- Reduction in gag reflex
Addressing Common Concerns about Dental Sedation
If you're considering treatment with dental sedation, you may have questions or concerns. We're addressing some common concerns from patients here, but you can always contact our North York dental clinic at (437) 900-8266 with additional questions.
Are You Completely Asleep During Sedation Dentistry?
No. Although you will feel like sleeping, you are still conscious and responsive to our team throughout your treatment. The amnesic effects of the medication also ensure you have little memory of your procedures.
Do You Feel Pain with Sedation?
No. You will feel completely relaxed and at ease during your treatment. Our dentists will use local anesthetics to numb the areas they're working on to ensure you don't feel any pain.
How Quickly Do You Recover from Dental Sedation?
Nitrous oxide's effects wear off when the inhalation mask is removed. After treatment, it is safe to drive and return to normal activities.
With IV sedation, the medication's effects take longer to wear off. That's why you'll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment, and you should plan to rest and recover for the remainder of the day.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Dental Sedation?
There are generally not too many side effects with nitrous oxide; however, some patients experience fatigue, headaches, nausea, or lightheadedness.
The medication used in IV sedation may leave patients with some side effects, including nausea, headaches, drowsiness, or dry mouth. Some patients may experience minor bruising or swelling around the injection site with IV sedation.
Learn More about Comfortable Dentistry at Emery Village Dental
If you have questions or want to learn more about sedation dentistry in North York, contact our team at (437) 900-8266.
