It is completely normal to feel anxious about receiving dental implants or any other oral surgery procedure. In fact, many individuals even shudder at the thought of visiting the dentist for a checkup and cleaning. Because we want our patients to feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible, we provide a variety of sedation options for anyone who wants or needs them. In today’s blog, your Santa Rosa, CA, oral surgeons discuss the different kinds of sedation we offer and describe how each one can help you relax as we conduct whichever procedure you need.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide — or laughing gas — is one of the most common forms of dental sedation because it is mild and versatile. It is exceedingly effective, safe, and it works quickly. Your dentist or oral surgeon mixes it with oxygen and you breathe it in through your nose via a small mask. It helps manage anxiety and also decreases minor amounts of pain by slightly slowing down your nervous system. A notable advantage of nitrous oxide is that it allows you to stay awake and cognizant, so you can hear and answer any questions asked by your oral healthcare professional. On the minor chance it occurs, you can also express any discomfort you may feel. Once your procedure is over, the gas should be entirely out of your system within minutes.
Oral Sedation
If you require something stronger than nitrous oxide, your dentist or oral surgeon may suggest oral sedation. This route consists of you taking a pill or a liquid — such as valium — to relieve anxiety and discomfort. You will typically take it prior to arriving for your procedure, so it is working by the time make it to the office. Because it has some lingering effects, you will need someone to drop you off and pick you up. This is usually a viable, recommended option for more invasive, yet non-surgical procedures. We provide a variety of services, so your oral surgeon will discuss if this sedation option is right for what you need.
IV Sedation
Also known as general anesthesia, this is the strongest one we offer. It is ideal for more invasive procedures — like oral surgery. It is administered intravenously into your bloodstream, and it starts working within minutes. Because it has such strong effects, you will be constantly monitored by a trained anesthesiologist. It is administered continuously, so you can be relaxed and “under” for as long as necessary. Because it is so strong, you will need someone to take you home after your procedure. This option is not offered for anxious patients; it is for surgical procedures. Before any service we provide, we will thoroughly discuss the appropriate method for keeping you relaxed and pain-free during your procedure.
Contact Us To Learn More About Our Sedation Services
It is incredibly important for our patients to feel relaxed and comfortable when they visit our office — no matter the procedure. To learn more about these services, and any others, schedule a consultation by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery in Santa Rosa, CA, today at 707-545-4625.