ORAL ANXIOLYSIS

SEDATION DENTISTRY - ORAL ANXIOLYSIS

Ease Your Anxiety at Pueblo West Neighborhood Dental and Implants

We understand that a visit to the dentist can sometimes be a source of stress, worry and anxiety. For some people, just the thought of going to the dentist can stop them from receiving necessary dental care. For your comfort and peace of mind, Pueblo West Neighborhood Dental and Implants offers our Colorado patients oral anxiolysis, otherwise known as sedation dentistry, to ease fears and make the whole process more comfortable.

Minimal dental sedation is the most appropriate level for most patients and procedures. This means that while you will receive nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or another form of sedative, such as a pill, you will remain conscious throughout the appointment and will be able to communicate fully with your dentist. Don’t let a fear of the dentist prevent you from taking charge of your oral health.

Expert Sedation Dentistry

We Can Treat Your Anxiety to Better Treat Your Dental Issues

Is dental sedation safe?

The oral anxiolysis offered for mild to moderate dental anxiety at Pueblo West Neighborhood Dental and Implants will not “knock you out”. You will be awake throughout the dental procedure but any fears or worries you have will be greatly lessened. Dental sedation is generally considered to be an extremely safe procedure, however our dentist will check your medical history to ensure it’s suitable for you. Dr. Ross and team will monitor you closely to ensure you’re comfortable at all times.

How long does the sedation last?

Mild dental sedation via nitrous oxide will last the length of the appointment but you will be fully recovered by the time you leave and able to drive yourself away. Dental sedation administered via pill or medication will be started shortly before your appointment and the effects may last for a little while after the end of the procedure. Because of this, you will need a friend or family member to drive you home.

Are there any side effects from dental sedation?

Usually patients have no adverse side effects from dental sedation or oral anxiolysis. If you do have symptoms after sedation, they will usually be short-term and mild, such as grogginess, a dry mouth and possible nausea or headache.

Who might benefit from sedation dentistry or oral anxiolysis?

Anyone can benefit from dental sedation, from children upwards. It’s especially beneficial for people who may have been skipping dental appointments because of a fear of the dental chair. Dentists recommend dental sedation in the following cases:

Patients with anxiety or a fear of visiting the dentist
A fear of needles
Patients with very sensitive teeth
Patients with strong gag reflex
Difficulty in staying still during an appointment
Those may have behavioral, cognitive or physical needs

Is dental sedation the same as pain relief?

Dental sedation is not pain relief in itself, but because it relaxes the patient it will also raise their pain threshold. If used in combination with anesthesia, sedation dentistry provides a calm and painless dental experience.