Sedation dentistry to the rescue: Many options are on your side to fight dental fear, anxiety, and more
Our dental “family” has been serving individuals and families from across Murphy, Texas, for more than 25 years – the longest-running family-owned practice of its kind in the area. As a trusted dental “home,” Murphy Family Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry have left no stone unturned regarding our patient’s comfort and experience. This mission starts with a talented, genuinely kind, and patient team led by Dr. Masoud E. Najari and Dr. Jacqueline T. Nguyen. In-office amenities, technologies, and capabilities further complement and strengthen our skillful team; these include sedation dentistry.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation is a way to help nervous or fearful patients feel relaxed during treatment. When patients are relaxed, they have a more pleasant experience at our office and a better relationship with dentistry and our team. They are more likely to maintain the visits necessary to keep their teeth healthy and looking great. The administration of a safe, relaxing medication may also be appropriate for patients undergoing long, complex, or multi-step procedures.
How is the medication administered?
The specific ways the sedative is introduced vary depending on the type of sedation used, which is furthermore dependent on your specific needs. We are equipped to offer different levels of sedation. The most mild form is nitrous oxide, while deeper relaxation may be induced with oral conscious or IV sedation.
What is nitrous oxide?
You may know nitrous oxide by its nickname—laughing gas. This mild sedation is safe and appropriate for children, adults, and seniors alike. The sedative is inhaled through a lightweight mask positioned over your nose. You remain awake throughout your visit, only much calmer and more at ease. Patients like that it doesn’t cause lingering drowsiness. They can return to their regular activities and even drive themselves safely to and from our office without arranging transportation.
What is oral conscious sedation?
This method involves taking a prescription sedative in pill form orally. Be sure to take the pill as directed by your dentist. While this sedative is stronger than laughing gas, you will not fall asleep. Due to potential drowsiness afterward, you will need to arrange for reliable transportation to and from your appointment, as you will not be able to operate a car or any other machinery following your visit. Patients appreciate that they have little to no memory of treatment afterward, which can be “triggering” for many individuals with more severe dental anxiety.
How does IV sedation work?
Murphy Family Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry is among the select dental providers in Murphy, TX, and beyond to provide this IV conscious sedation. It is administered intravenously. For utmost safety and to ensure the best possible experience, we can easily adjust the dosage throughout treatment. Here again, it is essential to confirm with us that you have a trusted family member or friend who can accompany you to and from your appointment due to the effects of this more potent form of sedation dentistry.
Our team knows that there is no silver bullet when it comes to combating dental fear. So, we encourage you to share your specific concerns with us. From there, we can work with you to ensure a comfortable, stress-free visit now and into the future. We welcome your call to (972) 808-5023 or schedule an appointment.