Sleep dentistry, or sedation dentistry, refers to using sedation techniques to help patients relax and feel more comfortable during dental procedures. At Cornerstone Dental of Rexburg, we administer medication to induce relaxation or even sleep to allow Dr. Crofoot to perform necessary dental work undisturbed.
Benefits of Sleep Dentistry
Reduced Anxiety and Fear
One of the primary benefits of sleep dentistry is its ability to alleviate anxiety and fear associated with dental visits. Many people experience dental anxiety or phobia, making it challenging for the dentist to provide the necessary dental care. Sleep dentistry helps patients feel more relaxed and comfortable, enabling them to undergo dental treatments without excessive stress or fear.
Enhanced Comfort
Sedation techniques in sleep dentistry promote a higher comfort level during dental procedures. The sedatives induce relaxation and may even have an analgesic effect, reducing pain perception. Patients are less likely to experience discomfort or sensitivity during treatments, making the dental experience more pleasant.
Time-Saving
Sleep dentistry allows for longer treatment sessions because patients are more relaxed and less sensitive to discomfort. This can be particularly beneficial for complex or extensive dental procedures requiring more time. As a result, multiple treatments or procedures that would typically span several visits can often be condensed into one session.
Types of Sleep Dentistry
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is a type of conscious sedation in dentistry where the patient takes a pill or liquid medication to help them relax during their visit. The patient remains awake during the procedure but feels more relaxed overall and can better cooperate with the dentist to complete the necessary procedures.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide is a colorless and odorless gas inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It induces a state of relaxation and helps reduce anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures. Nitrous oxide sedation is often used for mild to moderate anxiety levels, and its effects wear off quickly, allowing patients to resume normal activities after the procedure.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation
IV sedation involves the administration of sedative medication directly into the bloodstream through a vein. This type of sedation allows for precise control of the level of sedation and can be adjusted throughout the procedure as needed. Depending on the dosage and patient's response, IV sedation can range from mild to deep sedation.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia involves using medications that render the patient completely unconscious and unaware during the dental procedure. It is typically administered by an anesthesiologist in a hospital setting or specialized dental clinic. General anesthesia is reserved for complex or lengthy procedures or patients with severe dental anxiety or special needs.
Sleep dentistry is ideal for patients who might have avoided the Dentist in Rexburg, ID for a long time out of fear or anxiety. With sedation dentistry, you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during your procedure. To learn more, visit Cornerstone Dental of Rexburg at 44 S Center St, Suite B, Rexburg, ID 83440, or call (208) 656-3008.
