Conscious Sedation
If you are scared to see the dentist, you are not alone. A study conducted by the University of Germany showed that nearly 60% of patients interviewed worldwide are scared to visit a dentist. At Aqua Dental our staff is here to help make your visit a pleasant experience.
At Aqua Dental we offer different methods that will help you enjoy your visit at our office. Conscious sedation is sedation that places you in a state of relaxation. We offer 2 types of conscious sedation:
- Nitrous Oxide Sedation
- Oral Sedation
What Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Nitrous Oxide, also known as “laughing gas”, is our first line of treatment for those patients that have dental anxiety or phobia. With a high level of effectiveness and safety we are able to induce a state of calmness to our patients before and during dental treatment. Nitrous oxide has few to no side effects and quickly leaves your body after treatment is done. This level of sedation allows you to be awake and conscious but in a state of relaxation while Dr. Quevedo works on your smile. Patients report feeling calm and relaxed while under nitrous oxide.
Am I a candidate for Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Although nitrous oxide is known to be very safe, it can still have minor side effects such as headache or nausea. That is why, if possible, eating should be avoided 1-2 hours before treatment. If you experience any of these side effects during treatment please notify Dr. Quevedo, so that the intensity of the nitrous can be adjusted.
Female patients who are in their 1st trimester of pregnancy and patients who have pulmonary illness are not candidates for this treatment. Children can safely receive nitrous oxide for their dental treatments.
What to expect the day of my appointment
- A small mask will be placed over your nose that will emit a continuous stream of nitrous oxide and oxygen.
- Then, just breath and relax, let the nitrous oxide take effect
- Gradually nitrous oxide will be administered in small doses until you feel calm.
- When your treatment is completed, Oxygen alone will be administered for 5 minutes and the effects of nitrous oxide will begin to disappear within seconds.
- We will keep you in our office until the effect is 100% gone if you are driving home.
What Is Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation is another line of treatment for those patients who are afraid to visit the dentist. Medication is prescribed to the patient and taken 1 hour before treatment. Similar to nitrous oxide, you will be awake and conscious while in a state of relaxation. You will be awake and able to ask questions if needed. You might experience drowsiness and may not remember most of the procedure. Dr. Quevedo will go over your medical history before prescribing any of these medications.
Am I a candidate for Oral Sedation?
If you are nursing or pregnant, you should not receive this line of treatment. Children who are nervous are great candidates as well.
Oral Sedation Summary
- Provide us with any medications you currently take or any changes to your medications or medical history. Alcohol should be avoided while under oral sedation.
- Avoid eating for 5 hours before the appointment. This might reduce the effectiveness of the medication
- Our staff will monitor your vital levels to ensure the best level of sedation and comfort.
- You will be asked to have someone drive you to and from our office as heavy machinery are not recommended to be operated while under the sedation effect.
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