Sedation for All-on-4® Treatment
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Sometimes, when a patient visits Renaissance Dental Care for All-on-4® treatment, they might be nervous, scared, or anxious about the procedure and the sensations that accompany it. To prevent them from skipping treatment (something that more patients consider than you may think), Dr, Stockdale offers two forms of dental sedation to help make their visit relaxing and stress-free.
Types of Sedation
Dr. Stockdale has the appropriate training to administer various forms of sedation. He will choose the ideal type depending on the patient’s unique needs, the amount of dental work they’re getting, and their overall anxiety level. At Renaissance Dental Care, we proudly provide two dental sedation options: nitrous oxide sedation and oral sedation.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas as it’s also known, is the typical type of sedation that you see dentists use in movies. While this isn’t a Hollywood movie set, nitrous oxide provides excellent relief for patients with mild to moderate anxiety. It creates a care-free feeling without losing total consciousness.
Dr. Stockdale or a member of our staff will administer the sedative through a hose attached to a mask that they’ll place over the patient’s nose. As they breathe, a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen is inhaled, resulting in calmness and preparing them for the procedure.
Dr. Stockdale can easily control the amount of sedation that the patient receives. Typically, the gas wears off after about an hour; however, they’ll still need a ride home afterward.
Oral Sedation
Some patients require a stronger sedative to counteract their moderate to severe anxiety or fear. In these situations, Dr. Stockdale often recommends oral sedation.
Oral sedation is much simpler than nitrous oxide. In fact, if the patient can take a vitamin, they’re capable of receiving this form of sedation. An hour before their All-on-4 treatment, Dr. Stockdale will have them take the pill—that way, by the time we start the procedure, the patient will be fully relaxed. While oral sedation may make the patient drowsy, they’re still conscious.
Much like other sedation options, Dr. Stockdale insists that someone escorts the patient home after treatment. This person could be a friend, family member, co-worker, or Uber driver—as long as the patient isn’t driving.
Who Can Benefit?
Dental sedation is a luxury at most practices but at Renaissance Dental Care, all you have to do is ask Dr. Stockdale. He’ll review your medical and dental history, as well as any other pertinent information, and discuss your options with you.
Patients commonly choose sedation for the following reasons:
- A fear or anxiety that prevents them from routine dentist visits
- A patient requires a large amount of dental work
- A low pain threshold
- Sensitive teeth
- A gag reflex that makes receiving dental care challenging
- An inability to sit still in the dentist’s chair
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Frequently Asked Questions
How will I feel after dental sedation?
How you feel after dental sedation depends on what type of sedation you receive. After nitrous oxide, you’ll quickly return to your normal self after 2 to 3 minutes. Following oral sedation, it typically takes 24 hours to metabolize the medication. You’ll need to have a ride home in these cases.
In addition to following any recommendations by our dentists, you’ll want to refrain from any activities that could physically harm you or another person. Stay hydrated and rest as needed.
Can I talk during conscious sedation?
During conscious sedation, you’ll be able to respond to questions and may or may not remember the procedure. You’ll be completely relaxed and free of worries. Most patients report a euphoric and calm sensation.
Other common side effects of dental sedation include:
- Delayed reflexes
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache
Dr. Stockdale will be in close communication with you throughout your treatment to ensure you’re comfortable and free of pain, so he can adjust the dosage as needed.