Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas you can breathe. It has long served as the primary method of sedation in dentistry. Nitrous oxide is safe; the patient is given 50-70% oxygen and no less than 30% nitrous oxide. They can breathe independently and maintain control of all bodily functions throughout the procedure.  

The patient may experience mild amnesia and fall asleep, not remembering what happened during their appointment. However, they can recover quickly and even drive themselves home.

There are many advantages to using nitrous oxide:

• The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
• There is no after effect such as a "hangover".
• Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
• Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
• It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes, its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.  

Reasons Not to Use Nitrous Oxide

You should not utilize Nitrous Oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

You may want to ask your dentist for a "5-minute trial" to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.

Oral Sedation

If you experience high levels of anxiety when visiting the dentist, oral sedation may be for you.

Oral sedation ensures you feel relaxed during dental procedures, allowing treatment to be completed faster, more efficiently, and without causing you discomfort. The most commonly prescribed dental related drugs that treat anxiety belong to the “benzodiazepine” family, such as Valium, Halcion, Xanax, or Ativan.  

These drugs decrease anxiety by binding and toning down activity within “fear” receptors in the brain. There are two different types of Benzodiazepines:

• Sedative-Hypnotics: These drugs induce calm, including drowsiness and even sleep. This sleep state is actually a form of hypnosis which is a form of physiological sleep.
• ‍Anti-Anxiety Drugs: These are drugs which relieve anxiety and induce a state of calm and relaxation.

While benzodiazepines act as sedatives AND anti-anxiety drugs, some are highly targeted at areas within the brain which focus on sleep. Others act in a more specific way and target fear centers in the brain. In most cases, higher doses act as sedatives and induce sleep, while in lower doses, they reduce anxiety without sedation.

Benzodiazepines are also Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants (i.e. there can be a decline in blood pressure and breathing). For that reason, they shouldn’t be mixed with other CNS depressants, such as alcohol. It’s important that you utilize the dose your dentist or doctor recommends, as it is possible to overdose.

After taking any of these drugs, you won’t be able to drive on your own, so make sure you have an escort. Even if you traveled by bus or foot, it’s easy to become disorientated!

Reasons Not to Take Benzodiazepines

Some of these drugs can affect your liver and heart. It’s important to check with your practitioner and/or pharmacist whether or not you’re up for them beforehand.  

Moreover, you must inform your doctor or dentist if any of the following apply:  

• Known allergy to the drug
• Narrow-angle glaucoma
• Pregnancy
• Severe respiratory disease (COPD)
• Congestive heart failure (CHF)
• Impaired kidney or liver function
• Depression/bipolar disorder/psychoses
• Chronic bronchitis
• Other conditions

It’s also important to let us know if you are taking other medications. There could be possible drug interactions.

Benefits of Dental Sedation

Dental sedation offers several benefits for patients undergoing dental procedures:

• Reduced Anxiety: Sedation reduces the fear and anxiety associated with dental visits, making them more comfortable.
• ‍Pain Management: Sedation can alleviate pain during procedures, allowing patients to receive treatments without discomfort.
• ‍Increased Comfort: Patients are often more relaxed and at ease during lengthy or complex procedures.
• ‍Improved Cooperation: Sedation can help patients remain still and calm, which is especially useful for those who struggle to cooperate due to anxiety or medical conditions.
• ‍Faster Procedure Completion: Dentists can often complete procedures more quickly and efficiently when patients are relaxed and cooperative.
• ‍Catering to All Patients: Patients with special needs or those who struggle to sit still for long periods of time may benefit the most from it.

Addressing Dental Phobia  

Dental anxiety is when patients are uncomfortable and afraid of visiting the dentist. Dental anxiety can appear in both children and adults, and it may be mild to moderate. Moreover, it can range from mild apprehension when considering an upcoming procedure to an overwhelming, irrational fear of dental work.

Unbeknownst to many, dental anxiety is very common, with studies indicating that up to 75% of Americans have some level of dental fear, and 20% avoid dental care as a result of it. However, this can have several consequences for their oral health, like developing severe tooth decay and gum disease to the point of tooth loss.  

To prevent that, here at Dentistry at Kennestone, we make ensuring our patients' comfort and safety at our office our first priority—which is why we’re big advocates for dental sedation.  

With sedation, patients can feel safe and comfortable throughout the procedure, gaining the courage they need to obtain the dental care they deserve. If you think you could benefit from this treatment, reach out, and our kind staff will start taking measures to accommodate your important needs!  

We Can Help!

Whatever your individual level of anxiety may be, our office is committed to making sure that your visit is as comfortable, quick and easy as possible. There are many solutions for dental anxiety, and we are ready to help.

Here are a few popular methods for easing anxiety in the dental office:

• Communication: Informing us as to what you are afraid of is a great place to start. Often we can quell a fear simply by giving you correct or updated information. We will always keep you informed before, during and after your procedure, making sure that you understand what is going on and why we are doing it.
• ‍Calming Techniques: Many patients find it helpful to practice controlled breathing or to find distraction inside the room.
• ‍Listening to Music: With most procedures, the use of personal headphones and music is allowed. This is a great way to keep calm and pass the time while in the chair.
• ‍Oral Sedation: Depending on the nature of your procedure, various types of sedation may be available to you including oral sedation.
• ‍Taking Breaks: Let us know if you would like to take a short break during your treatment by signaling with your left hand.

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