There never seems to be enough time to complete everything on your to-do list; no matter how hard you try, some things just keep getting pushed to the bottom of the list. Dental treatments may be one of those things, and the truth is that once you skip one treatment, it can easily lead to skipping numerous treatments.
But imagine if you could get three appointments’ worth of work done in a single morning nap? Does this sound too good to be true? Well, with sedation dentistry, Dr. Nelson can work more efficiently and effectively, keeping you still and comfortable while he performs all the procedures you’ve been putting off. It’s the “one and done” approach to restorative care in Winston-Salem and the surrounding area.
Let’s take a look at why dental sedation is great for extensive dental work.
When Is Sedation a Good Option?
We recommend dental sedation for many different procedures, including the following:
- Routine exams and cleanings
- Dental x-rays
- Tooth-colored fillings
- Root canal therapy
- Dental implants
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Dental extractions
- Bone grafting
- Porcelain veneers
- Gum disease treatment
Exploring the Different Types of Dental Sedation
Dr. Nelson is one of the only general dentists in the area with a license in moderate sedation. He is passionate about helping his patients get the care they deserve without worrying about stress, pain, or anxiety.
Here are the three types of dental sedation he offers to his patients:
- Nitrous oxide — Nitrous oxide is a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide that you inhale through a small mask. It makes you feel relaxed and cozy, but you’re completely awake during your procedure. You may not remember everything about your appointment, but you can respond to instructions. Because it dissipates quickly, you’ll recover quickly and be able to drive yourself home or back to work. We recommend nitrous oxide for minor procedures or mild anxiety.
- Oral sedation — For more severe anxiety or longer procedures, we may suggest a prescription medication for you to take before you arrive for your appointment. You’ll need someone to drive you to and from our office, but during your visit, you’ll likely be completely relaxed and comfortable. Again, you may not remember your visit, but you’ll be awake and able to respond. Everyone’s response to oral sedation is different, so it’s difficult to know how relaxed you’ll be.
- Moderate sedation or IV sedation — Only 1% of general dentists in North Carolina are licensed to provide IV sedation, and we use this method for extensive dental work or for patients with severe dental anxiety. Dr. Nelson carefully delivers medication through your IV based on your anxiety level and medication tolerance. You’ll be in a deeply relaxed state; technically, you’re awake, but you probably won’t remember anything when you wake up. We’ll continuously monitor your vital signs, so you’ll be safe in our care.
Special Care Considerations for IV Sedation
At Blake Nelson, DDS, we take your safety seriously, and as such, we understand the importance of taking all necessary precautions before administering IV sedation.
Research indicates the importance of measuring vital signs and interviewing prospective patients before the day of the procedure. This provides a baseline and helps the dental team understand any of the following concerns:
- Dental phobia
- Vasovagal reflex concerns
- Hyperventilation syndrome
- Panic disorder
- Strong gag reflex
- Strong vomiting reflex
- A history of hypertension or heart disease
- Any illness that decreases respiratory capability
- Any allergies or potential drug interactions
The Benefits of IV Sedation
When you choose IV sedation from our dental office, you’ll finally be able to rest easy and get the dental treatment you’ve been putting off.
Some of the benefits of this form of sedation dentistry are as follows:
- Decreased anxiety — Because you’ll be in a twilight state during your procedure (not unconscious like with general anesthesia, but very drowsy and feel like you’re asleep), you won’t have to worry about fear or anxiety. Imagine just waking up and your oral health is restored!
- Comfortable administration — We’ll deliver your medication intravenously through a small tube, and you’ll quickly feel the effects. We can easily adjust the sedation level at any time to meet your needs, making IV sedation our preferred choice for many patients.
- Amnesic effect — You probably won’t remember anything about your procedure, so if you have severe anxiety, it’s a fantastic option. And you won’t have to be scared about future dental work either!
- Time efficiency — When you need lengthy or numerous dental procedures, IV sedation makes it possible for us to complete them in just one visit. It’s an extremely efficient way to provide the care you need.
- Reduced issues — For our patients with a strong gag reflex or other sensitivity concerns, IV sedation makes treatment easier and more comfortable.
- Minimized discomfort — Many patients with dental anxiety are afraid they’ll feel pain when they undergo dental treatment. With IV sedation, you’ll be much less sensitive to pain and discomfort.
Interested in Sedation Dentistry in Winston-Salem, NC?
If you’d like to learn more about how sedation dentistry can help you achieve your smile goals in less time than you thought possible, our experienced dental team will happily assist you! At Blake Nelson, DDS, we strive to help every patient achieve the best oral health possible, but we also want them to love what they see when they look in the mirror.
To schedule a consultation or appointment, feel free to call our office at (336) 760-1277.
