PATIENT INFORMATION

Sedation Dentistry

Most people can manage dental treatment with little more than some slight anxiety. For some people however, going to the dentist is a lot more difficult. Whether it was a bad experience in the past, or years of neglect, the fear makes it very difficult for some people to take care of their dental health. Dental phobias are serious business and we treat them as such.

There are 3 levels of anxiety control:

1. Mild to moderate anxiety ~ patients with this level of anxiety often do very well with nitrous oxide (see below).
2. Moderate anxiety ~ these patients have better relief of their anxiety with oral conscious sedation (see below).
3. Severe anxiety ~ for patients that have a hard time even walking into a dental office, we can administer IV sedation before their dental treatment is completed. The doctor will discuss these options with you if you are interested in any level of sedation.

Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which helps to minimize or eliminate anxiety during dental treatment.

Nitrous Oxide has been the the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years.

The patient is able to breathe on their own, remains conscious, and is able to leave the office and drive home immediately after treatment.

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide:

The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
There is no after effect such as a "hangover".
Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide:

Though there are no major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Dr. Steven Walters has had advanced training and holds a permit from the Ohio State Dental Board to perform conscious sedation. This sedation is done by taking a sedative tranquilizer medicine in the form of a pill, and this may be supplemented with nitrous oxide. The medication is safe, and the patient's vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure. The patient becomes very relaxed and has little or no memory of the experience. Many patients even sleep through their treatment but can always be aroused - they are not "unconscious" as in general anesthesia. Because of lingering effects of the medication, the patient must be driven home and accompanied for the rest of the day.

Who is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

People who have...

high fear
had traumatic dental experiences
difficulty getting numb
a bad gag reflex
fear of needles & shots
dislike for the noises, smells, & tastes associated with dental care
disabilities that preclude them from receiving traditional dental services