Have you been avoiding dental care out of fear or anxiety? Dr. Stampe, Dr. Gater, and our dental team are excited to announce that you no longer have to be afraid of visiting the dentist! We offer effective sedation dentistry solutions, and have created a warm, welcoming environment here in our dental office. Patient comfort is our top priority. Relaxing solutions for sedation dentistry from our Richardson, TX dentist, coupled with our compassionate, gentle approach create positive dental experiences. They are also the reason so many of our patients have come to love visiting the dentist!
Sedation Dentistry Solutions
With sedation dentistry, you can relax and even enjoy your time with us. Whether you have mild to severe dental anxiety, Dr. Stampe and Dr. Gater can recommend a sedation solution for a stress-free, pleasant experience.
Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation
A clear, odorless gas inhaled through a nasal mask prior to and during your procedure. Nitrous oxide renders you calm and relaxed, and delivers a euphoric feeling while inhaled. Once your procedure is complete we administer oxygen, which quickly dissipates the effects of the gas. Nitrous oxide leaves no aftereffects, and you do not need a companion to drive you following this type of sedation.
Oral Conscious Dental Sedation
A prescription sedative pill taken about an hour prior to your visit. Oral sedation is ideal for moderate to severe dental anxiety. It creates a deeper sense of calm and relaxation, and may leave you with little-to-no memory of your procedure. Because the effects of oral sedation typically last several hours, you will need a companion to drive you to and from your appointment.
Local Anesthetic
Numbing agent used to anesthetize teeth, gums and bone in treatment areas. Local anesthetic is often administered in combination with sedation solutions, and ensures patient comfort throughout the procedure. The numbing effects typically last a few hours, so it is best to avoid eating until after the anesthetic wears off.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Is sedation dentistry safe?
For most patients, dental sedation is a safe option. Most people handle nitrous oxide without an issue. Out of all the sedation options, it is the safest for most people. Before deciding whether to administer sedation, we will go over your medical history and current medications to ensure that there won’t be any negative interactions. While you are sedated, we will carefully monitor your vitals at all times to ensure that you are safe!
What does it feel like to be sedated at the dentist?
This depends on the type of sedation that you receive. Nitrous oxide sedation makes you feel relaxed, light, and euphoric. Some patients may notice a slight tingling sensation in their arms and legs. Oral conscious sedation gives you an even deeper sense of relaxation. You may have difficulty speaking and staying awake – some patients even doze off during their procedure. Time may appear to pass more quickly.
How long does dental sedation last?
This varies for each method. The effects of nitrous oxide sedation should wear off within five minutes once you stop inhaling the gas. You should be good to drive yourself back home or to work afterward without lingering drowsiness. With oral conscious sedation, the pill’s effects may remain active for the rest of the day. You should avoid driving for 24 hours after your procedures to ensure that the effects have completely worn off.
Does dental sedation put you to sleep?
Sedation dentistry is often referred to as “sleep dentistry,” but it doesn’t literally put you to sleep. However, your memories of being sedated may be fuzzy, so it might feel like you’ve fallen asleep even though you didn’t. With oral conscious sedation, you may become groggy enough that you temporarily doze off, but we will gently nudge you awake if this happens.
Does dental sedation make you tell secrets?
Contrary to popular believe, dental sedation is not actually a “truth serum.” While it can make an interesting plot for your favorite sitcom, it is very unlikely that you will reveal any deep, dark secrets while you are sedated. Even if you do say something that you normally wouldn’t, you can trust that it will be kept within the walls of the treatment room.
