Every year, a number of patients avoid going to the dentist because of dental anxiety, a real condition that is sometimes rooted in previous experiences. But thankfully, you don’t have to let anxiety keep you from the essential care you need. At Summer Creek Dentistry, we offer both nitrous oxide and oral sedation dentistry in Fort Worth, TX to help anxious patients overcome their negative feelings to have a new kind of experience. Don’t let fear or anxiety stand between you and a healthy smile anymore.
Oral sedation uses a safe and commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medication to dissolve feelings of nervousness and create a sense of peace and relaxation. Prior to your procedure, Dr. King will talk to you about your anxiety and the medication you’ll be taking. She’ll instruct you on how much to take and when to take it. Then, on the day of your appointment, you’ll take your medication and sit back while it goes to work.
When your appointment is over, you’ll have a healthier smile without the feelings of anxiety you normally experience. You will need to have someone with you to drive you home afterward, though. The effects of oral sedation take some time to wear off, but you’ll be back to normal by the next day.
Anxiety isn't the only reason some patients use oral sedation. In some cases, it’s used to help patients who struggle with neck, back, or shoulder pain, or who have trouble sitting for long periods of time. Other patients might not respond to local anesthetic, while others might need to have multiple procedures completed in a single appointment, making this solution all the more beneficial. If you have questions about oral sedation, let Dr. King know. We’re always happy to provide you with more information about your treatment.
If you need a little extra help relaxing in the treatment chair because you struggle with dental-related anxiety, you have a sensitive gag reflex, or you need more extensive care, ask us about nitrous oxide! Commonly referred to as laughing gas, this calming form of sedation offers several benefits, including the fact that the effects dissipate quickly, so you don’t need to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment! If you are interested in learning more, get in touch with us to schedule an appointment or read on.
Nitrous oxide is a great option for patients who struggle with mild to moderate dental-related anxiety. It’s also suitable for those who have a sensitive gag reflex, who have a disability that makes it difficult to sit still, or who experience head/neck/jaw pain in the treatment chair. It is not recommended for expecting mothers, those who are allergic, or patients who have trouble breathing through their nose due to a condition like asthma. Ultimately, if you are interested in finding out if you’re a candidate for nitrous oxide, the best thing to do is take the next step: schedule a consultation with our Fort Worth dental team!
Unlike oral conscious sedation, nitrous oxide sedation is administered through a nasal mask. Once it’s comfortably in place, we will switch on the colorless, odorless gas and ask you to breathe through your nose. It only takes a few minutes for the effects to set in, so it won’t be long until you feel utterly relaxed and completely at-ease. Since you’ll still be awake, you can ask any questions you have throughout your time in the treatment chair, and you can easily respond to any cues we give you. Plus, the nitrous oxide can be adjusted at any time, ensuring you remain perfectly comfortable every step of the way.
As we mentioned above, the effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly. So, you can return to your normal activities, like work or school, almost immediately. All we ask is that you abide by any aftercare instructions we provide you related to the treatment you received. For example, if you had a root canal, you need to take OTC pain medication as directed, stick to soft foods, and rinse periodically with warm saltwater. As always, if you have any questions after you leave our office, you can give us a call. We’re happy to help!
Would you like to take advantage of our sedation options for your next dental visit? Contact our Fort Worth dental office and let us know. We are happy to accommodate patients from Fort Worth, Haltom City, North Richland Hills, Benbrook, Burleson, and beyond and take the stress out of dental care.