For patients who are anxious about their procedures or who need more than one procedure performed on the same day, Smiles By The Sea provides comprehensive dental sedation options to keep you comfortable and relaxed.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia, also known as sleep dentistry, is recommended for patients who are nervous or scared about their procedure. It's also recommended if more than one procedure needs to be performed on the same appointment. General anesthesia is given via oral or IV and puts the patient to sleep during their procedure. General anesthesia provides both a safe and effective way to perform a procedure on patients who may otherwise be uncomfortable or anxious.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation allows the patient to remain awake yet relaxed during their procedure. The patient is given an oral sedative which puts them in a deeply relaxed and comfortable state. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is also given to increase the sedative effects and ensure the patient is completely relaxed during their procedure. The gas is closely monitored and checked to ensure you are always safe and comfortable.
IV Conscious Sedation
IV Conscious Sedation involves giving a strong sedative to the patient through an IV. This form of sedation puts the patients in a relaxed and calm state of mind. In fact, it’s not uncommon for patients to drift in and out of consciousness; however, they will be able to respond to simple verbal cues to let the dentist know if they are uncomfortable. Because IV conscious sedation takes time to wear off, you will need someone you trust to drive you home following your procedure. The sedative effects should be gone by the next day.
Contact Smiles By The Sea, family dentistry in Belmar, to learn more about our sedative options.