The great news for fearful or anxious dental patients is that at Smile Station Family Dentistry, we offer several options for sedation dentistry in Paducah, KY, that are entirely safe and can help you comfortably get the dental treatment you need. Here’s what you should know.
Nitrous Oxide
Also called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation delivering gas breathed through an inhalation mask worn during your procedure. Nitrous oxide is the lightest form of sedation we offer, and it’s safe for adults and children. In addition, adults can drive home safely after a procedure using nitrous oxide as it leaves their system as soon as we remove the mask.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral sedation is delivered through medication you will take about an hour before your procedure. The medication offers heavy relaxation, and many patients feel like they’re sleeping even though they’re still conscious and responsive. The amnesic effect the medication has also means that most patients have little to no memory of their procedure.
Due to the nature of the medication, patients must have transportation arranged to and from their dental appointment, and they should plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
IV Sedation
This is the deepest level of sedation we offer that’s delivered intravenously. Your heart rate and vital signs are monitored throughout your procedure, and we can adjust the medication as needed to maintain your comfort.
IV sedation is ideal for patients with these concerns:
- Severe anxiety or dental phobia
- Special medical needs
- Bad gag reflexes
- Difficulty sitting for long periods
- A complex treatment plan with multiple procedures they’d like to complete during one appointment
Talk With Our Team
If you feel like you or a loved one might benefit from dental sedation, Dr. Bridges would love to discuss your options. Give us a call at (270) 408-1234 for more information on dental sedation in Paducah.
