One of the most common things preventing people from seeking the dental care they need is fear. Dr. Dave Pringle and his dedicated team do not believe that dental anxiety should prevent you from enjoying fantastic oral health and a lovely smile. We are dedicated to providing gentle care in a comfortable, stress-free environment. At Wellington Family Dentistry, in Wellington, Co, we utilize safe and effective sedation techniques to take the fear and stress out of dental appointments!
Have questions? Read Common Questions About Sedation Dentistry. We believe that creating a positive patient experience is an important part of excellent dental care. We want everyone who enters our office to feel welcome, comfortable, and enthusiastic about improved health and aesthetics. We have found that turning dental care into a relaxing, rewarding experience helps our patients develop a positive attitude about oral health, and better hygiene habits. For more information about how dental sedation can help you relax and love your smile, schedule a consultation at Wellington Family Dentistry today.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry allows patients to receive the dental care that they need without feeling uncomfortable. According to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, nearly 30 percent of adults avoid the dentist due to fear, making sedation dentistry extremely valuable in the dental community. By using the latest and safest treatment options to sedate patients during appointments, Dr. David Pringle makes necessary and beneficial dental care accessible to all patients. The types of sedation dentistry Dr. Pringle offers at his Wellington, CO, practice include:
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is the mildest form of sedation. The medication is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a mask, inducing relaxation. You will remain conscious and aware of your surroundings. Some patients feel heaviness in their limbs or light-headedness, and possibly a tingling sensation. These effects are normal and not harmful. It only takes a few minutes for nitrous oxide to take effect, and you should feel comfortable and calm. Many people experience a mildly euphoric feeling, hence the common name “laughing gas.” The benefits of nitrous oxide include:
● Extremely safe and gentle
● You can drive yourself home after your appointment
● Relaxes you and helps reduce pain sensitivity
● Minimal side effects
● Can be combined with other forms of sedation
Oral Sedation
Conscious oral sedation can be used for virtually any dental procedure if the patient feels uncomfortable. It is mild and very safe. Benefits of oral sedation include:
● Allows patients to relax completely
● The patient does not lose consciousness
● No IV is needed
IV Sedation
With IV Sedation, medications are administered through an intravenous line (I.V.). The patient relaxes and usually falls asleep and is unaware of the procedure being performed. Supplemental oxygen is delivered through a nasal breathing apparatus and the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored.
Intravenous anesthesia offered in the office includes Moderate sedation or Deep sedation. A patient may choose intravenous anesthesia for even simple procedures if their anxiety level is high enough. Most people having their wisdom teeth removed or having a dental implant placed will choose Moderate Sedation. Moderate sedation has been described as “twilight” sedation or “conscious” sedation and most people retain little to no memory of the procedure once completed. Moderate sedation is VERY safe and is the preferred sedation for dental treatment. Deep sedation if for those who need the highest level of sedation offered in a dental office setting or for those that Moderate Sedation has not worked on in the past.
