Sedation Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry
If you get anxious at the thought of visiting the dentist, you are not alone; millions of Americans avoid dental visits because of nerves.
However, putting off dental care can put both your smile and your overall health at risk.
At Iroquois Dentistry in Nashville, TN, we use sedation dentistry to help patients feel more comfortable during dental appointments.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
We believe that everyone deserves quality oral healthcare. That is why we offer sedation dentistry, which can help induce relaxation so you can remain relaxed and comfortable throughout your dental treatment.
Nitrous oxide is considered one of the safest forms of sedation. Because the levels can be adjusted throughout the dental procedure, patients do not have to worry about the effects fading during treatment.
Unlike IV and oral sedation, nitrous oxide is inhaled rather than delivered directly to the bloodstream or ingested. The effects wear off quickly, so patients can drive themselves to and from our dental office.
Unlike IV sedation, laughing gas does not require the use of needles or injections. This is especially ideal for patients that have a fear of needles, and it avoids any discomfort or bruising at the site of the IV.
Who Can Sedation Dentistry Help?
Dental Anxiety
Sedation can be particularly helpful if your anxiety has physical symptoms, including sweating, panic attacks, a racing heartbeat, or tears.Skipped Dental Appointments
Sedation dentistry is often recommended for patients whose fear of the dentist may interfere with their routine oral healthcare.Complex Dental Issues
We may recommend sedation to patients undergoing more complex treatment plans at our Nashville practice.Difficulty Controlling Movements
Sedation can relax movements for patients with certain medical conditions or disabilities, allowing our dentists to proceed with treatment.A History of Bad Dental Experiences
Sedation can calm individuals with a history of traumatic dental experiences, preventing the anxiety that the sounds and smells of the office may cause.What Is Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is one of the fastest-acting and most cost-effective forms of dental sedation. It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless chemical compound. Administered as a gas, it is usually inhaled through the nose and has a calming effect.
Some patients have described the effects as “feeling heavy,” as though they are sinking into their chair, while others may notice slight tingling sensations in the extremities. Under its effects, individuals are still aware of their surroundings but are much more relaxed. We are happy to provide this option to patients that want to avoid IV sedation or sedatives.
How Sedation Dentistry Works
Mask Placement
1
If you choose nitrous oxide as a sedation option, our doctor will place a small mask over your nose.
Breathe
2
We will ask you to breathe normally to experience the sedative effects. Then we will remove the mask.
Treatment
3
In most cases, patients feel the effects within three to five minutes. Once patients feel comfortable and relaxed, we will proceed with treatment.
Repeat
4
We will stop as needed to re-administer nitrous oxide and maintain its calming effects throughout treatment.
5-Star Reviews from Our Patients That Make Us Smile
"The Best Dentist’s Office I’ve Ever Been To"
Iroquois Dentistry
Our top-rated dentists have been serving the Nashville community since 1946. We use the latest technology to offer gentle and effective care at affordable prices, and we are members of various national and local dental organizations:
- American Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- Tennessee Dental Association
- Nashville Dental Society
To schedule a visit at Iroquois Dentistry, contact us online or call 615-551-3639.
Extreme Tooth Sensitivity
No one wants to experience discomfort at the dentist, which is why patients with tooth sensitivity tend to avoid dental visits.