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Sedation dentistry is a safe, viable alternative for patients who cannot overcome the fears they have of dental procedures.

According to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, 30 percent of the population avoids going to the dentist due to fear.  This fear prevents patients from receiving necessary routine dental care, which can potentially compromise the health and functionality of their mouth and smile.  You can have the beautiful smile and good health that you have always wanted with sedation dentistry. 

Sedation is a process used to establish a relaxed, easy and calm state through the use of sedatives, which can be administered in a variety of ways.  In the past, IV sedation was predominantly used to sedate a dental patient.  IV sedation is both safe and effective.  However, sedation dentistry has evolved to be even more conducive to a relaxing experience.  Patients have alternatives to the traditional modalities of inhalation and IVs, such as those offering a “no needle” approach that many people find appealing.

Although some forms of sedation may raise your threshold for pain, most dental treatments may still require a local anesthetic injected in the mouth, even when sedation dentistry techniques are performed.  Using a local anesthetic will temporarily block pain impulses from the affected teeth and gum tissue.  The injection of the anesthetic will be injected after you have already been sedated and comfortable, so you will most likely not be bothered by or remember the sensation of having the injection.

Types of sedation methods include:

• Nitrous Oxide (Light Sedation) - Also known as laughing gas, this is a very safe gas that allows people to feel less apprehensive during treatment.  This is one of the most commonly used techniques administered by a dentist during conscious sedation.  The goal of using nitrous oxide is to eliminate dental anxiety, making you more comfortable while your dentist is able to effectively and efficiently complete your treatment.  Nitrous oxide is used by dentists as a sedation method for simple tooth extractions, root canals, dental inlays, oral surgery and other various options. 
• IV Sedation (Deep Sedation) - As a part of deep sedation, IV sedation is both safe and effective creating such a comfortable experience that most patients may not even remember their visit to the office.  IV sedation induces a state of deep relaxation and a feeling of not being bothered about what is going on around you.  The onset of action with IV sedation is very rapid and the dosage can be tailored to meet your individual needs. 

For more information, contact Dr. Gregory A. Stiver, Kansas City sedation dentist, at (816) 533-7393 today!