If scary is how you describe going to a dentist, we have the answer for you. Sedation dentistry is our remedy for those who are afraid of the dentist or feel a high level of stress when undergoing a dental procedure. It’s a specialized approach we use to ensure our patients are comfortable and stress-free during their dental visit.
At its core, sedation dentistry is about transforming your dental experience into something calm and anxiety-free. It’s one of the ways we show our commitment to patient-centered care, ensuring that fears and doubts don’t stand in the way of you and your family getting essential dental health care.
Sedation Options at Newtown Dentistry
We offer a couple of sedation services tailored to meet the needs and preferences of both adults and children. If we’re considering sedation, we will go over your medical history, allergies, pregnancy status, chronic respiratory condition status, and other criteria to make sure you are an appropriate candidate for sedation and determine which method is best for you. Each option comes with different recovery times and potential side effects, which we will share with you so you can make an informed decision.
Often known as “laughing gas,” this sedation method is mild and effective for patients of all ages. You inhale nitrous oxide through a mask, and calming effects begin within three to five minutes. The nitrous oxide allows you to relax without falling asleep. We control the amount of sedation you receive and will adjust dosages throughout your procedure. Recovery is quick, with the effects wearing off shortly after the mask is removed, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules. Though rare, the most common side effects are nausea and vomiting.
IV Sedation
For patients who require a deeper level of relaxation, IV sedation is administered directly into the bloodstream, offering an immediate and adjustable sedation level. During your procedure, our dental anesthesiologist will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. We can adjust your dosage at any point. Most people who receive IV sedation fall asleep and have little to no memory of their treatment when they wake up. This option is ideal for longer or more complex procedures. Recovery time is longer compared to nitrous oxide, and patients may experience grogginess after the procedure.
Sedation Dentistry for Children
Safety is a paramount concern at Newtown Dentistry, especially when it comes to our youngest patients. Both nitrous oxide and IV sedation are used safely in our pediatric practice, under the careful supervision of our highly trained and experienced professionals. The choice of sedation depends on the child’s comfort level, the procedure’s complexity, and your dentist’s recommendation.
Driving After Sedation
Our adult patients often ask whether they can drive themselves home after being sedated. As the recovery periods are different for each method of sedation, the effect on your driving immediately after will differ as well. After nitrous oxide, most patients are able to drive themselves home once the effects have worn off, typically within minutes after the procedure. With IV sedation, due to its stronger effects and longer recovery time, patients will need someone to drive them home. It’s important to plan accordingly for your safety and convenience.
Who Benefits from Sedation Dentistry?
While we tailor our treatments to each of our patients, there are some common situations and procedures where sedation is highly beneficial.
For adults undergoing complex dental procedures such as crowns and implants, sedation dentistry provides great comfort. Dental implants, which involve replacing missing teeth with artificial ones, can be a prolonged and intricate process. Sedation is helpful in managing any discomfort and anxiety for the duration of the process.
Pediatric dental visits can be particularly intimidating for children. Our pediatric sedation approach is designed to be gentle, reassuring, and adaptable to each child’s needs. Whether it’s routine cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, or more involved treatments, our sedation options are customized to ensure a positive and fear-free dental experience for our youngest patients.
Endodontic treatments, such as root canals, involve treating the inner aspects of the tooth and can be intricate and uncomfortable. Since precision and patient stillness are important in endodontic procedures, sedation dentistry helps relax our patients for the length of the procedure.
At Newtown Dentistry, we go above and beyond to ensure you feel safe and comfortable. Our professionals are not only trained in the latest sedation dentistry techniques but also bring years of experience to each procedure, ensuring a safe and stress-free experience for every patient. For additional comfort, our adult practice rooms are themed to feel more like a relaxing spa or beach vacation. Our pediatric unit includes an indoor treehouse, stuffed animals, and toys—all designed to keep kids happy and relaxed.
Whether you’re in need of routine care or more complex treatments, our team is here to ensure your dental experience is as comfortable as it is effective. Schedule an appointment now. Or, call us any time for questions at (215) 770-3896.
While we tailor our treatments to each of our patients, there are some common situations and procedures where sedation is highly beneficial.
