SEDATION DENTISTRY IN COLORADO SPRINGS

If going to the dentist is your worst nightmare, you need sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry in Colorado Springs helps fearful adults and children make it through their dental appointments without anxiety. Dr. Sayers uses oral conscious sedation and inhalation conscious sedation. Oral sedation is a medication that is taken orally before your appointment. Inhalation sedation is commonly known as nitrous oxide or laughing gas and is mixed with oxygen and inhaled during the course of your appointment. Both oral and inhaled sedation help you relax during your appointment. You will not experience anxiety or fear, but instead will be calm and relaxed. This could be your ticket to the easiest dental appointment you have ever had!

CONSCIOUS SEDATION

Most of the time, sedation means that you are not awake or at least not very functional. Conscious sedation is different because you will be awake and able to respond, act, and breathe on your own. Most patients do experience an amnesic effect during sedation. Dr. Sayers uses this sedation to help you have a good experience at the dentist. Colorado Springs, CO residents can benefit from a new way to visit the dentist with sedation dentistry.

Sedation in Dentistry: The Whole Story

There are many different ways sedation is used in the medical and dental industry. Sedation dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO, uses the same methods as most dentists.

• Deep Conscious Sedation is generally reserved for oral surgeons and dentists who are certified to administer IV drugs. The drug is given intravenously. IV sedation is used mainly for in-depth procedures where the surgeon or dentist needs to have more direct control over the amount of drug given. This method produces a deeper sedation and results in a more amnesic effect.
• Oral Sedation is becoming the favored method for sedation dentistry in Colorado Springs. With oral sedation, a prescribed pill is taken the before the appointment, or sometimes it is taken the night before or an hour or two before the appointment. Often a second pill is taken just before dental work begins.
• Inhalation Sedation is the classic form of sedation in dental offices. Though it is not used as much as it once was, it is still very effective. Patients receive a nitrous oxide and oxygen mix that helps them cope with the anxieties of a dental appointment.

More About Oral Sedation

Oral sedation dentistry in Colorado Springs involves the use of a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. They sedate and cause mild amnesia. Some patients don’t remember anything about their dental appointments under oral sedation.

Advantages of Oral Sedation:

• It’s easy! All you have to do is swallow a pill.
• It’s safe! You will be monitored by the dental staff and problems are rare.
• It’s effective! It works well for most people.
• It’s low cost! This is one of the most affordable ways to get sedation dentistry.
• It’s versatile! Oral sedation can be used on adults or on children.

Disadvantages of Oral Sedation

• It’s limited. The level of sedation is set and cannot be adjusted based on reaction.
• It’s varied. The effect of the drug varies from one patient to the next. You can never be sure if the dose will be too much, just right, or not enough.
• It takes time. It must be taken on schedule to have the desired outcome.
• It’s debilitating. You must get a ride to and from your appointment.
• Driving under the influence of sedation drugs is not an option.
• It’s a one trick pony. Pain medication must be prescribed separately.

More About Inhalation Sedation

Nitrous oxide is widely used by many a dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, and has a proven track record. It is used on adults and children to great effect.

Advantages of Inhalation Sedation

• It’s basic! Good for moderate anxiety.
• It’s fast! Nearly immediate effect and nearly immediate recovery.
• It’s adjustable! No matter the length of the appointment, it doesn’t wear off until it’s removed.
• It’s controlled! When more is needed, the mixture is adjusted.
• It’s analgesic! It has a slight pain-killing effect.
• It’s safe! You can drive yourself to and from your appointment safely.

Disadvantages of Inhalation Sedation

• It’s not for those who suffer from severe anxiety. Patients requiring a higher level of sedation should not use it.
• It’s not for respiratory patients. Asthma or other respiratory patients should avoid it.
• It’s not for the claustrophobic. Patients may feel uncomfortable with the nosepiece.