Regular dental checkups keep your teeth strong, your gums healthy, and your smile bright. For patients that suffer from dental anxiety, visiting the dentist can be too stressful. At Westside Dental Center, we understand that dental anxiety is real, and it can keep you from getting the care you need.
That’s why we offer conscious sedation dentistry. It’s a safe and effective way to help you feel calm and relaxed during your visit. You’ll stay awake and responsive, but you’ll feel so at ease that you might not even remember the details of your appointment. It’s a game-changer for patients who feel nervous about dental procedures. Sedation also allows Dr. Dham to complete multiple treatments in one visit.
You don’t have to avoid your routine dental exams and end up developing more complex dental health concerns anymore. Our entire dental care team is committed to providing a compassionate, non-judgmental environment for all patients. We offer personal, warm, high-quality dental care for children and adult patients.
Dr. Dham and every member of our team takes the time to listen to your concerns and work together to understand your goals. Whether you have been away from the dentist for many years, or if you are looking for a new dentist in Plantation FL area, we welcome everyone to Westside Dental Center. We offer laughing gas and oral conscious sedation. Dr. Dham will examine your oral health and suggest the most relevant sedation options for you.
Sedation Dentistry At Westside Dental Center
Conscious sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax while still being able to communicate with your dentist. It’s perfect for everything from routine cleanings to more complex procedures like dental implant surgery. Whether you’re dealing with fear, a sensitive gag reflex, or a long list of treatments, sedation can make your experience much more comfortable.
Conscious sedation dentistry is a highly effective and safe way to manage dental anxiety. Patients are able to remain alert and responsive while Dr. Dham completes their treatments.
We offer two main types of conscious sedation to fit your needs:
- Oral Conscious Sedation: This involves taking a prescribed medication before your appointment to help you relax. You’ll take the first dose at home, and it will start to take effect by the time you arrive at our office. Because this type of sedation can make you drowsy, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
- Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide): Laughing gas is a mild, inhaled sedative that helps you feel calm and relaxed almost instantly. It’s odorless, easy to administer, and wears off quickly, so most patients can drive themselves home after their appointment. It’s a great option for patients who want a lighter level of sedation.
Dr. Dham will discuss conscious sedation options with you prior to your treatment. You will choose a conscious sedation method based on your health, personal concerns, and what type of procedure you need.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Why Choose Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry isn’t just for patients with severe dental anxiety. It’s for anyone who wants a more comfortable experience. Here’s why so many patients love it:
- Reduced Anxiety: Sedation helps you feel calm and relaxed, even if you’re normally nervous about dental visits.
- Time-Saving: Dr. Dham can often complete multiple procedures in one visit, so you don’t have to keep coming back.
- Comfort: Sedation minimizes discomfort and makes longer procedures feel like they fly by.
- Customized Care: Dr. Dham will work with you to choose the best sedation option based on your health, concerns, and the type of procedure you’re having.
What Can I Expect From Dental Sedation?
Following IV sedation, patients may experience sleepiness; however, this should pass within a few hours. Due to the extremely relaxed state that our patients experience during IV sedation, they may anticipate that some forgetfulness effects will linger after treatment.
Does Sedation Dentistry Put You to Sleep?
A dentist will use sedation to help a patient feel more at ease in the dentist chair. The majority of the time, patients are awake and conscious throughout the process. Only general anesthesia will make a patient fall completely asleep.
Can I Drink Water Before Sedation Dentistry?
For up to six hours prior to their visit, most patients are instructed to abstain from food. This guarantees that the sedative takes its full effect and that the patient won’t feel queasy. Before the appointment, drinking clear liquids including water is acceptable.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Absolutely! Conscious sedation is a safe and well-established practice in dentistry. Dr. Dham will review your medical history and discuss your options to ensure you’re a good candidate for sedation. Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities.
If you’ve been putting off dental care because of anxiety or fear, sedation dentistry can help. At Westside Dental Center, we’re here to make your visit as stress-free as possible. Call us today to learn more about how sedation dentistry can work for you! When you are ready, request an appointment online or call our Plantation dental office at (954) 251-0640.