If you have a fear of dentists, you might be tempted to put off needed procedures or even skip a visit altogether. Yet dental health is absolutely crucial to overall health, so it is very important to have all necessary work done. For many patients, sedation dentistry is the solution.

You have three basic options for dental sedation, depending on your level of fear, your health history, and your personal preferences:

  • Inhaled minimal sedation: Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the perfect choice for many patients. You will be awake but relaxed, and possibly a bit giddy. A combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen is delivered through a mask, and your dentist can easily control the blend. This type of sedation wears off in just minutes when the mask is removed, allowing you to safely drive yourself home and go about your day.
  • Oral sedation: Depending on exactly which drug is used and at what dosage, oral sedation provides light to moderate sedative effects. You will be instructed to take a pill a certain length of time before your procedure, to ensure maximum benefit. You will be more deeply relaxed than with nitrous oxide, and might even fall asleep in the chair.

You can be awakened with a gentle shake, and the effects typically wear off completely in a few hours. However, you must bring someone with you to drive you home, and will be instructed not to drive until the next day.

  • IV Moderate Sedation: This type of sedation is administered through an IV needle in your arm, allowing your dentist to adjust the level of sedation as needed. You will likely fall asleep, and may feel a bit “out of it” once you awaken. You must bring someone to drive you home, and you may not drive until the next day. IV Sedation is not typically needed. Most of our sedation patients use oral medication.

Conveniently located in Woodbury, MN, Creekview Dental provides a progressive yet conservative approach to dental care. Our innovative, highly personalized procedures are focused on maintaining tooth structure and providing you with the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve. Call us today at 651-738-8204 to take the first steps on the road to better dental health.