The Sensory Experience of Sedation Dentistry

One of the primary reasons people avoid visiting the dentist is due to anxiety. If you’re in need of dental care, it’s crucial to remember that your dentist is there to provide assistance and support to you.

If you find it challenging to overcome dental anxiety, there’s no need to worry. Dental anxiety is a common issue, and there’s a solution that might just change the way you perceive dental visits – sedation dentistry.

If the mere mention of “sedation dentistry” raises concerns for you, continue reading to learn more about it and how it can significantly improve your dental experience.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Typically, when you visit the dentist, you remain wide awake and conscious of everything happening around you in the treatment room. This heightened awareness can often contribute to the anxiety and nervousness you might feel.

To help alleviate this, sedation dentistry employs various sedation techniques, including nitrous oxide and oral sedation, which can reduce sensory input and create a more relaxed and comfortable experience for you. But how does it feel?

How it Feels to be Under Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is administered via a small nose mask. As you breathe it in, the gas begins to inhibit the tiny electrical signals sent to your brain. This doesn’t stop you from feeling or put you to sleep, but it does dull all sensation.

As the gas starts working, you may feel your limbs tingle or become heavy. Because nitrous oxide is a depressant, you’ll start to lose some of your inhibitions, becoming euphoric, giggly, and relaxed. This effect is why nitrous oxide is sometimes called “laughing gas.”

How it Feels to be Under Oral Conscious Sedation

Nitrous oxide is the mildest form of sedation offered by your dentist. Oral conscious sedation involves taking a pill before the treatment begins. As the medication dissolves, it releases nerve inhibitors, inducing a deeper sense of relaxation than the gas.

While the medication isn’t a sleeping pill, you will feel more drowsy with this form of sedation, and some of your motor functions will be slower. Your reflexes and your ability to perceive time are also affected.

The combination of these elements means that you will feel deeply relaxed, sleepy, and you may not remember your treatment at all. Some patients even say they felt time passing more quickly while under oral conscious sedation.

These effects will wear off after a few hours, so you must have a friend or family member take you home after your appointment.

Sedation dentistry has the potential to transform your dental experience. If you’ve ever felt apprehensive about visiting the dentist, remember that you’re not alone, and there are solutions available to help you receive the care you need without stress or fear.

About the Practice

At Advanced Dental Solutions of Pittsburgh, your comfort and peace of mind are top priorities. Their team of skilled professionals understands that dental anxiety is common for many patients, and they’re here to ensure your dental procedures are as comfortable as possible. To schedule an appointment or learn more about sedation dentistry, visit the website here or call (412) 854-2310.