Do you ever experience dental anxiety? Many people in the United States are scared of the dentist and some actually avoid any and all treatment. When you avoid dental visits, you increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In order to treat patients with anxiety or other difficulties, we provide sedation dentistry. In today’s blog, your Ankeny dentist, Dr. Erika Peddicord, answers frequently asked questions about our sedation techniques.
Question: What patients would you recommend sedation to?
Answer: Often, sedation is prescribed for patients undergoing a number of more extensive dental procedures, including root canals and the removal of impacted or wisdom teeth. Sedation also helps patients with severe anxiety. With sedation, you remain calm and relaxed throughout the procedure. As a result, sedation may also be recommended for patients with developmental disorders and certain medical complications, including overactive gag reflexes. Dr. Peddicord will examine your medical history before deciding if sedation is appropriate for your procedure.
Question: What is nitrous oxide?
Answer: Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a common method of sedation that has been used for decades. Using a mask, your Ankeny IA dentist will administer small doses of nitrous oxide. Soon, you will experience a calming sensation that will last through the procedure.
Question: Will I need to arrange a ride home?
Answer: No. Unlike other sedation techniques, such as IV or oral sedation, nitrous oxide wears off almost as soon as the procedure ends. Patients can return to work or school and even drive themselves home.
Do you have any more questions about nitrous oxide or our other sedation techniques? Then talk to your Ankeny IA dentist today. Dr. Peddicord will decide which of our sedation options will best address your needs. To schedule an appointment, call our 50021 dentist office at (515) 963-3339. Also, visit our website for patient forms, oral care tips, and to learn about our team. We happily serve new and existing patients in Bondurant, Polk City, Elkhart, Alleman, and Cambridge, and neighboring areas.
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