Going to the dentist can be a nerve-wracking experience for patients of all ages, and at Advanced Smile Design, we’re always ready to bend over backward for patients, so they can feel comfortable from check-in to checkout. For our especially anxious patients, we’re happy to offer them sedation dentistry to guarantee a relaxing experience. These techniques can calm a racing mind as well as prevent a patient from feeling any pain no matter what kind of procedure they need. If you think sedation would be a big help at you or your child’s next appointment, give us a call today.
Nitrous oxide goes by a more well-known name—laughing gas! It’s excellent for helping patients who just need to “take the edge off” of their dental nerves, and it’s gentle enough that we can even use it with small children. A patient simply inhales the gas mixed with oxygen through a small nasal mask, and within moments, they should feel warm and calm from head to toe. We can adjust the amount of nitrous oxide a patient receives throughout their appointment as needed. Once the mask comes off, the gas’ effects wear off almost instantly, meaning a patient can quickly resume their day as normal.
For patients with more severe dental phobia, our dentists can prescribe them a pill to take the day of their appointment that will help them feel completely relaxed by the time they reach our dental office. We often use this method when a patient needs an extensive procedure as well. In the chair, the patient will remain awake and be able to respond to basic commands, but the entire visit will seem to fly by in a blur for them. Many have little to no memory of their visit afterward, making the entire appointment seem like a dream.