Sedation Dentistry
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a method of comfortable dentistry in which medication is used to calm your nerves, ease anxiety, and make your treatment more relaxed and comfortable. At Laurel Smile Design, Dr. Amna Choudhary and Dr. Sunny Choudhary may recommend sedation for patients with dental anxiety, younger patients who have difficulty sitting still, or anyone undergoing a longer procedure. We are experienced in nitrous oxide sedation and oral sedation, and we’ll discuss your options with you in detail so you can make an informed decision about your care. Call us today to discuss your options for sedation dentistry in Laurel, MD.
Levels of Sedation Dentistry
The level of sedation that’s right for you depends on your age, overall health, anxiety level, and the procedure being performed. We’ll walk you through your options in detail before your appointment so you feel confident in your choice. The levels of sedation we offer include:
Mild or Minimal Sedation: Also called conscious sedation, this level uses nitrous oxide delivered through a mask to calm your nerves while you remain fully awake and able to respond. It’s safe for both children and adults, wears off quickly, and is often recommended for simple procedures like fillings or straightforward extractions.
- Moderate Sedation: Moderate sedation is administered in pill form before your appointment. You’ll stay conscious, but deeply relaxed, and may have little memory of the procedure afterward. We often recommend this level for longer appointments or patients with more significant dental anxiety.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
We specialize in two types of sedation dentistry: nitrous oxide sedation and oral sedation. We’ll fully explain both options during your consultation.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a gas inhaled through a small mask. The effects take hold within a few minutes and leave your system quickly once your procedure is complete.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is administered in pill form, typically taking around 30 minutes to take effect. The effects can last for a few hours, so you’ll need someone to drive you home after your appointment.
Looking for Sedation Dentistry in Laurel, MD?
Benefits of Dental Sedation
Sedation dentistry eases the fear, anxiety, and discomfort that can come with dental treatment. A calm, relaxed patient also allows our team to work with more precision and efficiency, which can mean a shorter appointment. Sedation is especially helpful for younger patients who may have trouble sitting still, and for anyone who has been avoiding necessary dental care due to anxiety. Getting the treatment you need helps you avoid more serious complications down the road, like pain, decay, infection, or tooth loss.
Who Should Consider Oral Sedation
We offer sedation dentistry to patients of nearly every age. You may want to consider oral sedation if you:
Have dental anxiety or fear that keeps you from getting certain treatments done.
Have a strong gag reflex.
Have especially sensitive teeth.
Are undergoing a longer or more involved procedure.
- Are a parent of a child who may struggle to sit still through treatment.
Contact Our Sedation Dentist to Make an Appointment
If you’d like to learn more about your options for dental sedation, call our team at Laurel Smile Design today or contact us online. We have the experience and training to help you feel calm and comfortable with both nitrous oxide and oral sedation. If fear or anxiety has kept you from getting the dental care you need, we encourage you to consider sedation dentistry as a way to protect the health of your teeth, mouth, and gums.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. Both nitrous oxide and oral sedation are safe, well-established options when administered by a trained dental team. We review your health history beforehand to make sure sedation is a good fit for you.
Will I be asleep during my procedure?
No. With nitrous oxide and oral sedation, you’ll remain conscious throughout your procedure. You’ll simply feel calmer and more relaxed, and you may have little memory of the visit afterward with oral sedation.
Do I need someone to drive me home after sedation?
With nitrous oxide, you can typically drive yourself home since the effects wear off quickly. With oral sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you, since the effects can last a few hours.
Is sedation dentistry safe for children?
Yes. Nitrous oxide is commonly used for children and is a safe, gentle way to help younger patients stay calm and comfortable during treatment.
How do I know which type of sedation is right for me?
The right option depends on your anxiety level, health history, and the procedure you’re having done. We’ll talk through your options during a consultation and recommend what fits you best.
LAUREL SMILE DESIGN
Visit Your Dentist in Laurel, MD Today
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Office Hours
- Monday: 9am to 4:30pm
- Tuesday: 10am to 7pm
- Wednesday: 9am to 4:30pm
- Thursday: 10am to 7pm
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: By Appointment Only
- Sunday: Closed