SEDATION DENTISTRY
Are you nervous about dental visits or procedures? Do you avoid treatment because you fear discomfort, mentally or physically? At Lane Family Dental, our team respects dental anxiety and phobia, and Dr. Lane has instituted sedation dentistry to help our patients enjoy comfortable visits, as well as rewarding treatment.
Call Lane Family Dental in Wasilla, AK today at 907-373-2200 with your questions. We will explain how sedation dentistry works and how it can help you.
About Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is used during treatment to induce a state of calm and relaxation. While this is often referred to as sleep dentistry, it is important to note that patients are not unconscious. Instead, these sedatives can alleviate anxiety and help patients achieve a restful, more carefree state. In addition to sedation, local anesthesia is also administered to keep patients comfortable during their procedure. At Lane Family Dental, we offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation.
NITROUS OXIDE
One of the most common forms of sedation, nitrous oxide is delivered via inhalation. Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide helps induce relaxation and alleviate dental anxiety. To administer the gas, a small mask is placed over the nose and the patient is asked to breathe in normally. Typically, the effects become noticeable in about three to five minutes. Most patients feel incredibly relaxed and may notice a tingling sensation in the fingers and toes. The exact dosage can be adjusted throughout treatment, making nitrous oxide a safe and effective option. Best of all, nitrous oxide can be flushed from the system within a few minutes. Therefore, patients can drive themselves to and from their appointment.
ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION
Patients with moderate to severe anxiety, or those undergoing lengthier procedures, can benefit from oral conscious sedation. This involves taking a sedative medication 30 to 60 minutes before your appointment. Oral conscious sedation induces a deep state of relaxation. In fact, some patients even fall asleep during their procedure. However, individuals will still be able to communicate with the doctor and surgical team if necessary. Because oral conscious sedation temporarily affects cognitive ability and motor skills, patients will need to have a friend or family member accompany them to and from the office.
Ideal Patients
Sedation dentistry is usually appropriate for anyone who experiences fear or anxiety during dental visits. It is especially beneficial for those undergoing a lengthy procedure, as it can merely help patients be more comfortable during treatment. Additionally, sedation dentistry is useful for individuals who cannot control their movements. For example, patients with Parkinson’s disease or cerebral palsy are often hindered from receiving the dental care they need. Sedation dentistry helps relax the muscles so that involuntary movements do not impede treatment.
During a consultation at our practice, Dr. Lane will discuss your health history with you in detail. This will include any current or past medical conditions as well as any medications or supplements you may be taking. Gathering this information is essential for determining your eligibility for sedation dentistry.
Peace of Mind, as Well as Body
With today’s advances, there is no need to suffer unnecessarily from fear or anxiety. Sedation dentistry allows patients to comfortably receive the dental care they need for optimal, long-lasting oral health.
Call Us with Questions
Postponing dental visits and procedures is not a good plan. Don’t allow anxiety and fear of the dentist to keep you from the dental care you need for oral and overall health, and high quality of life. Call Lane Family Dental today in Wasilla, AK today at 907-373-2200 and reserve an appointment to talk with Dr. lane about sedation dentistry. We’re also happy to answer your questions over the phone, before you schedule a consultation.
PRACTICE AREAS
Office Hours
Monday
8:00AM – 5:00PM
TUESDAY
8:00AM – 5:00PM
WEDNESDAY
8:00AM – 5:00PM
THURSDAY
8:00AM – 5:00PM
FRIDAY
8:00AM – 5:00PM
SATURDAY
CLOSED
SUNDAY
CLOSED