Although there is nothing inherently wrong with dental-related anxiety, it can make everything from routine cleanings to essential restorative care unpleasant. In fact, many patients avoid their dentist entirely for that very reason! If that’s where you are now, it’s worth considering sedation dentistry. If you want to learn a little more about it before scheduling an appointment, then read on to learn the answers to a few common questions about it.
How Long Does Sedation Dentistry Last?
The answer depends largely on the type of sedation dentistry you choose. The effects of oral conscious sedation, for example, typically last for several hours, which is why patients need to arrange for someone they know and trust to drive them to and from their appointment. Conversely, the effects of nitrous oxide dissipate within a matter of minutes!
Does Sedation Dentistry Make You Tell Secrets?
No, sedation dentistry is not a truth serum. So, you don’t have to worry – even more powerful ones won’t cause you to share secrets. Plus, even if you did share or say something you normally wouldn’t, you can have peace of mind knowing that it will never leave the walls of your treatment room.
Is Sedation Dentistry Only for Anxious Patients?
Sedation dentistry is great for patients who struggle with dental-related anxiety. However, that’s not its only use! Calming solutions, like nitrous oxide, are also great for patients who have a sensitive gag reflex, who struggle with head/neck/jaw pain in the treatment chair, or who need extensive care, like multiple tooth extractions. So, if you feel like you’d benefit from having sedation dentistry added to your treatment plan, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist if you’re a candidate!
Can I Be Sedated for My Routine Dental Cleanings?
There’s a common misconception that sedation dentistry can only be used when more extensive care is needed. That’s not the case! Nitrous oxide is extremely helpful for patients who need help relaxing in the treatment chair, even for something as “routine” as a cleaning.
About the Practice
For Dr. Petulla and the rest of our Marlton dental team, there is nothing more rewarding than helping our patients have the positive, calm, and enjoyable experience they deserve. That’s one of the reasons we’ve been included on South Jersey Magazine and Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist” lists for years! If you’re overdue for a checkup, you’re struggling with a painful toothache, or you want to enhance your smile, but you are curious about adding sedation dentistry to your treatment plan, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us via our website or by phone at (856) 983-4846. We want to help!