Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry or relaxation dentistry, is a method used to relax patients so they can get the dental care they need for better oral and overall health. Millions of people put off visiting the dentist every year due to dental anxiety, dental phobia, or hectic schedules. While understandable, this can result in larger dental issues along the road.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
If you have any of the following issues or have had any of them in the past, sedation may be an option to help you get the care you need:
- Uncomfortable dental visits
- Treatments taking large amounts of time
- Strong gag reflex
- Feelings of nervousness about visiting the dentist
- Dental anxiety that has caused you to avoid getting care when you needed it
- Fear of needles or dental apparatuses
- Difficulty getting ‘numb’ for dental treatments
- Back or neck problems that prevent comfort during regular dental care
Sedation Dentistry Options
Our team offers different sedation options to help patients cope with these issues:
- Laughing gas: The most popular form of sedation dentistry. As you inhale the laughing gas, it provides a sense of relaxation and calm.
- Conscious dental sedation: Also known as oral conscious sedation, this uses a special sedative pill to provide deep relaxation. You’ll remain awake but stress-free during your procedure.
- Patient comforts: Such as blankets, TVs, headsets, and earplugs to enhance relaxation.
What to Expect During Sedation Dentistry
While often called “sleep dentistry,” you will actually be awake throughout the procedure. Some patients may feel so relaxed they fall asleep, and many don’t remember much about the procedure afterward. This can be ideal for patients with dental anxiety.
Advantages of Sedation Dentistry
- Allows patients with dental anxiety to receive necessary care
- Procedures can be completed more quickly and precisely
- Improved recovery from involved procedures
- Multiple procedures can be combined into one visit
- Patients with neck or back problems may be more comfortable
Our Experience in Sedation Dentistry
At Jurich Dental, our caring office staff have been providing sleep dentistry and complete dental care in the San Antonio area for over 25 years. As a member of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS), Dr. Stewart has accumulated over 500 hours of continuing education in sedation dentistry and other related topics. He takes great satisfaction in providing exquisite cosmetic and routine dental care in a stress-free environment.
Other Ways We Help with Dental Anxiety
In addition to our dental sedation options, we provide a relaxing environment for treatment. We dim the lights, provide blankets, and go the extra mile to ensure our patients are comfortable.
Schedule Your Anxiety-Free Dental Appointment Today
Whatever your reason for needing sedation dentistry, our team has the options that can help you get the care you deserve. Have more questions about sedation dentistry? Looking to schedule an appointment? Call us today! Take a look at our dental financing options for sedation dentistry.
