Sedation Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry provided by Sedation Dentist Dr. Ryan Sill provides a way for you to relax while receiving the dental care that you need. If you have been putting off dental treatment because of fear or trouble with dental work, we can help.
Sedation Dentistry may be right for you if you:
- Experience high anxiety related to dental appointments.
- Are difficult to numb.
- Have a past history of traumatic dental experiences.
- Hate the sounds and smells during dental procedures.
- Have trouble or are unable to keep your mouth open for extended periods of time.
- Have extremely sensitive teeth.
- Have a strong gag reflex.
There are three different types of sedation offered in our office:
1: Nitrous Oxide ("Laughing Gas")
Nitrous oxide is a gas that reduces anxiety and helps you feel more relaxed. Recovery time is very short and you will be able to drive to and from your appointment. Nitrous oxide is best suited for shorter appointments and patients with mild anxiety.
2: Oral Conscious Sedation
This form of sedation involves taking one or two pills about a half hour prior to your dental treatment. The pills generally produce a deeper state of relaxation than nitrous oxide, however you will remain awake and able to respond to the dentist. Oral sedation is also well suited for shorter appointments because once the drug reaches its peak effect, it will rapidly begin to wear off. For this method of sedation you will need to have a responsible adult drive you home after treatment.
3: IV Moderate Sedation
IV Sedation is a form of conscious sedation in which you are responsive and partially awake but will likely not remember much or any of the procedure, including sounds and smells. Patients describe the experience as seeming to be asleep even though they are not fully asleep with the time quickly passing by. During the entire appointment, you will be monitored by our specially trained staff.
Advantages to using IV Sedation:
- Immediate administration of sedation drugs
- Can be used for long or short appointments
- Enhanced control over the sedation with ability to adjust the sedation level
If you are interested in Sedation Dentistry give us a call at (505) 883-5835. We will start off with a short and easy consultation appointment to review your dental needs and medical history.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Will I be unconscious?
A: No. You will be conscious but very relaxed and will likely not remember any of the procedure. Time will seem to pass very quickly.
Q: Will I feel any pain?
A: No. You will not feel any pain.
Q: Can I drive to and from my appointment?
A: No. You will need someone else to drive you to your appointment and look after you once the procedure is complete.
Q: How long will I be sedated?
A: Depending on the procedure, you will be sedated anywhere from one to six hours.