Candidates for Sedation Dentistry
We want you to feel at ease throughout your entire implant procedure. You’re not the only one experiencing dental anxiety, so rest assured your safety and comfort is always our first concern.
Dr. Stanislaus typically suggests sedation for patients who:
- Experience rapid heartbeats and nausea waiting in a dental office
- Have had bad past experiences with the dentist
- Require multiple extensive treatments in one appointment
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Squirm from just the look or thought of dental tools
- Don’t feel the effects of numbing agents
If you have allergies or any other concerning health issues, please be sure to inform us so we can suggest the safest sedation option for you.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is the most common form of dental sedation. It’s administered through a small mask that’s placed over your nose. You’ll feel the effects within seconds as you inhale, experiencing a wave of euphoria and relaxation that will help you stay comfortable during your procedure.
After your procedure is complete, the effects can be reversed fairly quickly, so you’ll be able to drive yourself home.
IV Sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation is a much deeper form of sedation dentistry that we offer. The medication is safely administered directly into your bloodstream, so you’ll feel the effects right away.
During your procedure, you’ll fall into a “twilight sleep”, where you’ll be deeply relaxed but still conscious and responsive. You won’t feel much during your treatment and you’re unlikely to have any memory of it later.
Unlike nitrous oxide, the effects of IV sedation may linger for a few hours. As a result, we recommend you arrange for someone to drive you home safely.
The Comfort You Need, The Smile You Deserve
If you’ve been neglecting to maintain your smile due to anxiety, we encourage you to visit Brooklyn Heights Dental so we can discuss your needs and how we can help calm your nerves.
Our sedation dentist Dr. Stanislaus believes every patient deserves a beautiful smile. That’s why we offer sedation options to help you overcome your fear and achieve your smile goals. Call our office at (718) 865-8320 and schedule a no-obligation consultation with Dr. Stanislaus today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dental sedation safe?
As long as your sedative is administered by a licensed dentist or anesthesiologist, sedation dentistry is totally safe. You’ll remain in a state of semi-consciousness throughout your treatment, often referred to as “twilight sleep,” in which you won’t feel any pain. Rest assured, we’ll monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
Will I be unconscious during my procedure?
While many patients believe that they’ll lose consciousness under sedation, this isn’t really the case. In fact, you’ll remain awake and responsive throughout your treatment, though you’ll be deeply relaxed and won’t feel any pain. You’ll also have little to no memory of your experience after the procedure, helping to reduce your anxiety for future dental appointments.
Can I drive myself home after being sedated?
Your ability to drive yourself home will depend on the type of sedation you receive. If you’re given nitrous oxide, the effects can be reversed almost immediately after treatment, allowing you to drive home unassisted. However, if you undergo IV sedation, you’ll need to arrange for a ride since the effects often linger for a few hours after the procedure.
Will I feel any pain under sedation?
When you’re given sedation before your dental treatment, you’ll feel a wave of relaxation and euphoria spread through your body. While you won’t lose consciousness, you’ll enter a state of “twilight sleep” that will ensure you remain calm and pain-free throughout your procedure. Best of all, you likely won’t remember your treatment later, which will help to eliminate your dental anxiety over time.
How will I feel after dental sedation?
How you feel after dental sedation depends on what type of sedation you receive. After nitrous oxide, you’ll quickly return to your normal self after 2 to 3 minutes. Following IV sedation, it typically takes a few hours for the drowsiness to subside. You’ll need to have a ride home in these cases.
In addition to following any recommendations by Dr. Stanislaus, you’ll want to refrain from any activities that could physically harm you or another person. Stay hydrated and rest as needed.
Can I talk during conscious sedation?
During conscious sedation, you’ll be able to respond to questions and may or may not remember the procedure. You’ll be completely relaxed and free of worries. Most patients report a euphoric and calm sensation.
Other common side effects of dental sedation include:
- Delayed reflexes
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache
Dr. Stanislaus will be in close communication with you throughout your treatment to ensure you’re comfortable and free of pain, so he can adjust the dosage as needed.
Is sedation safer than general anesthesia?
Conscious sedation is safer than general anesthesia because there are more risks associated with losing consciousness. That’s why general anesthesia is reserved for invasive surgeries that typically take place in hospitals.
Conscious sedation has its own risks such as:
- Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
- Respiratory depression
- Allergic reaction
While complications with dental sedation are rare, having a trusted dentist such as Dr. Stanislaus to administer the medication will ensure you receive the proper dosage and that the treatment will produce the best possible results.