At Creekside Dental we make sure that patients are as comfortable as possible. Dental sedation allows us to perform cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry procedures with little to no pain and discomfort. We may utilize Nitrous Oxide, topical and local Anesthetic, or Oral Sedation, depending on the procedure and the patient. If going to the dentist makes you feel anxious or scared, using sedation can help you feel more relaxed during your visit. Furthermore, sedation is great for patients who don’t like feeling pain during dental work.
When you choose sedation dentistry, our team will make sure that it is the right option for you. We will assess your health and your current treatment. We want you to have the best experience possible when you visit our Flint dental office.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous Oxide is an odorless, non-irritating, colorless gas that you can breathe. The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions. However, the patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.
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, it’s relaxation and painkilling properties develop.
Anesthetics
Creekside Dental uses topical and local anesthetics, often in combination. The topical anesthetic we generally use is very strong & long lasting. A local anesthetic may be used in combination with the topical anesthetic. We have a variety of local anesthetics, and our dentists will choose which one is best for the patient and for the procedure to be performed.
Oral Sedation
For cases where a patient is very anxious, our dentists may prescribe an oral medication that can be taken by the patient before an appointment. This medication will help them to relax more. After taking the medication the patient is awake and functional but usually very sleepy, and on occasion may even drift off to sleep during the dental procedure.