SEDATION DENTISTRY

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SEDATION DENTISTRY IN SANGER, TX

A significant number of Americans do not visit the dentist for regular checkups because they are too fearful or suffer from dental anxiety.  Sedation dentistry offers an excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety-free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.

Sedation dentistry is often mistakenly thought to induce sleep.  In fact, most sedatives allow the patient to stay awake during the procedure.  Sleepiness is a side effect of some medications, but nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation and IV sedation only work to calm anxiety throughout the dental visit.

Sedation dentistry is popular because most sedatives can be taken by mouth, meaning no injections, no anxiety and no pain.  Some sedatives work so effectively that even the smells and details of the procedure cannot be recalled afterwards.  Safety and compliance are two important aspects of treatments, so sedation dentistry offers both the individual and the dentist the best alternative.

Whatever the form of sedative, it is essential to be accompanied by a caregiver.  Sometimes, sedatives are provided the night before the dental visit, which means that driving to or from the appointment is not advisable.

HERE ARE SOME ADVANTAGES ASSOCIATED WITH SEDATION DENTISTRY:

  • Anxiety is alleviated.
  • Few side effects.
  • More can be accomplished during each visit.
  • No needles.
  • No pain.
  • Perfectly safe.
  • Procedures seem to take less time.

WHAT KINDS OF SEDATIVES ARE AVAILABLE?

The most popular types of dental sedatives are nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.  Different levels of sedation (mild, moderate and deep) can be utilized depending on individual needs.  Before administering any sedative, the dentist must analyze the full medical history of the patient, taking note of any current medications.

HERE IS AN OVERVIEW OF SOME OF THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF DENTAL SEDATIVES:

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is used as a mild sedative.  It is delivered through a nose hood, and is administered throughout the entire procedure.  Nitrous oxide elevates the general mood and can evoke a general sense of well-being.  Most importantly, it relieves anxiety and reduces pain during the procedure.  In addition, some tingling and numbness may be felt. There are few side effects associated with nitrous oxide, and it has been safely used in dentistry for many years.

IV Sedation

Intravenous sedation is a moderate type of sedation.  Patients who have previously experienced IV sedation often report feeling like they slept through the entire procedure.  Generally, IV sedation is used for shorter treatments.  It is administered via direct injection into the bloodstream, which means the effects are immediate.  Sometimes patients feel groggy and sleepy when the IV sedatives are withdrawn.  This is why it is important to bring a designated driver for the drive home.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is an excellent choice for people who fear needles.  Oral medication is provided prior to treatment in order to induce a moderate state of sedation.  Though oral sedatives do not cause sleep, they usually dull the senses.  This means that most patients cannot remember the pain, smells or noises associated with the procedure.  Usually, a dose of medication is taken prior to the appointment, and then topped up during the procedure as required.

WHAT TYPE OF DRUGS ARE USED IN ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION?

Most of the drugs used in sedation dentistry are classified as benzodiazepines.  Benzodiazepines reduce anxiety, muscle spasms, insomnia and seizures.  Each medication has a different half-life, meaning that the effects last for varying amounts of time.  The estimated length of the procedure determines which type of drug is going to be most effective.

HERE ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON DRUGS USED IN ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION:

Valium® – This sedative has amnesic properties and a long half-life. It is usually used for time-consuming, complex procedures.

Halcion® – Usually used to treat insomnia, Halcion is an effective sedative with amnesic properties.  A short half-life makes this sedative useful for shorter procedures.

Ativan® – This sedative is best known for reducing anxiety.  It has amnesic properties and a medium half-life.  Ativan is typically used for treatments shorter than two hours.

Versed® – This sedative has the shortest half-life and is therefore less commonly used.  It alleviates anxiety in much the same way as nitrous oxide, and is used for visits that will take less than 30 minutes.

If you have questions or concerns about sedation dentistry, please contact our office.

 

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What our patients say

Karah MorganKarah Morgan
21:52 28 Sep 24
I couldn’t recommend this dental office enough. I have seen so many dentists in the last 4 years trying to fix my situation. I was always met with judgement and never kindness until I found Dr.khan and his team of lovely assistants. He took his time and truly wanted to work with me & not just want to take out all my teeth. They worked with me with financing which I never thought would be possible. dr.khan and everyone involved have truly given me my life & my confidence back. If you’re reading this because you’re trying to find a dentist, please don’t go to those corporate places that don’t care about you. This is truly a family dental office and I felt more taken care of than I ever have.
tony vanwinkletony vanwinkle
22:37 09 Sep 24
Julienne is fantastic. Very caring and professional!
Hashim MamoonHashim Mamoon
20:31 09 Sep 24
clotilda Chimwazaclotilda Chimwaza
23:20 28 Aug 24
Delaney PhillipsDelaney Phillips
20:46 28 Aug 24
Everyone at the office was very kind! My hygienist today explained everything in detail and talked to me like a friend not just another patient.I enjoyed my visit!!
Misty HolmesMisty Holmes
06:35 24 Aug 24
I came in for a consultation to talk with Dr. Khan about some possible options. I feel the service I received from him was great, he exceeded what I was expecting. I felt he took the time to explain my options. Looking forward to moving forward here soon. So far I’d recommend his practice.
Jesus BrantnerJesus Brantner
15:11 09 Jul 24
First time appointment at North Texas Family Dental! The entire experience went well. I had a general exam, cleaning, I had several questions about a missing tooth and possible implant. The service I received here was great and exceeded my expectations. Good service all around and I’d highly recommend them!
Jonathan BeckJonathan Beck
16:59 25 May 24
Losing teeth caused me to lose a lot of my confidence. I was anxious about the cost of replacing them when I came to this office. However, the staff was incredibly supportive and made it affordable for me to get the dental work I needed. Thanks to them, I will soon have a restored smile and regain my confidence.
TS RTS R
18:04 09 May 24
If you’re hesitate I’m here to share my experience. Neisha is amazing wonderful assistant, great customer service! Pretty smile, very outgoing personality. Dr. Khan did everything above and beyond to make sure I was happy and satisfied. The wait time was bare minimum and the front office staff was excellent! I would definitely recommend to family and friends.
Mdsark SarkMdsark Sark
12:56 19 Sep 22
Greeted with a welcoming smile from the most caring staff! Dr Khan is amazing! Has gentle hands and a huge heart! So thankful to have found this dentist office.
Steve GarnerSteve Garner
22:56 13 Sep 22
My wife and I drive from Sherman Texas to visit this office because we love the Hygienist Cassie. She has cleaned both our teeth for 15 years. Today I had a crown done. Best dental experience ever. Zero pain. Awesome communication from Dentist and the staff is very friendly. We will continue making the 50 mile trip to do business here.
Whitney LaymanceWhitney Laymance
01:38 12 Aug 22
Dr. Kahn was amazing, he was really kind to me and did amazing managing my anxiety and making sure that I finally get everything taken care of. I was in some immense pain from a previous dentist not doing the work properly. So I am super thankful and grateful I finally found an amazing dentist. He even called to check on me after my procedure it is a great office
Christian ConnerChristian Conner
00:34 22 Jun 22
This is the best experience I have ever had. They took their time, explained, and made me feel like my time was important. They are very reasonable with their prices. The office dog, IS THE BEST! If you need a good, trustworthy dentist who will listen and HELP! This is your place.
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