Sedation Dentistry in Kennewick, WA
For some, the idea of a visit to their local Kennewick dentist makes them break into a cold sweat. Some patients may have anxiety about dental procedures or may simply feel nervous about being in the chair. Others have had less than favorable experiences with dentists and aren’t too keen on going in for their regular cleaning.
If you can identify with either of these feelings, perhaps it’s time to consider sedation dentistry. The dentists at A Family Dental Center would love to meet with you and help determine the right course of action for your next dental visit.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is when dentists use a variety of techniques to provide a patient with sedation before or during their dental procedure. Depending on the patient’s needs, various types of sedation may be used. Three of the most common types are intravenous, inhaled, and oral sedation.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation
This is a safe and effective treatment option that is administered by our trained professionals. With this method, sedation medication is delivered directly into your bloodstream, providing the patient with immediate sedation.
Inhaled Sedation
Inhaled sedation has quickly become the preferred choice for sedation needs. Often called laughing gas, this treatment allows the patient to feel calm and relaxed during their dental procedure while avoiding the use of needles.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation uses medications that are given to the patient to take prior to their procedure. These are often administered 1 to 2 hours before the procedure begins to allow plenty of time for the medication to take effect.
With any type of sedation, a local anesthetic is injected directly into the mouth. This is done since the sedative given to you can lower your threshold for pain. If you have a fear of needles, you have nothing to worry about, as this injection is administered after you are sedated.
If you have been avoiding the dentist because of the fear and anxiety you experience, you could be putting your oral health and hygiene at risk. Thanks to sedation dentistry, you can get the care you need.
Let us provide you with our exceptional dental care and help you improve your teeth and smile. Call A Family Dental Center today to speak with a member of our caring staff. We will be happy to schedule you with a consultation to meet our dentists and discuss the best treatment for your needs.
What Can I Expect During Sedation?
Throughout your procedure, you will be closely monitored by our staff to ensure that your vitals remain within normal levels and to ensure that your sedation is working properly.
Depending on the type of sedation each patient is administered, their experience will differ. Inhaled sedation is not as strong, and patients may be able to drive themselves home after their procedure. On the other hand, patients who are administered intravenous sedation may not be able to.
One of the best things about sedation dentistry that patients appreciate is the effect it has on memory. Most patients don’t remember any part of their dental visit or procedure. This makes going to the dentist much more manageable for many people.
Is Sedation Right for Me?
If you think sedation dentistry could help you deal with your nervous feelings, our dentists at A Family Dental Center can help you decide on the method of sedation.
Ultimately each patient will have to decide for themselves. However, patients with anxiety disorders have benefited from using sedation dentistry in the past.
Make an Appointment at Our Kennewick Dental Office Today!
At A Family Dental Center, we want every appointment to be as enjoyable as the last. Our Kennewick dental office has performed countless dental procedures with the use of sedation and would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about our techniques. We want to put your worries at ease.
If you’ve been thinking about undergoing a dental procedure with the use of sedation, please don’t wait! Call now and make an appointment at our Kennewick office. Our A Family Dental Center team of highly trained dentists would love to meet you.