Sedation Dentistry Colorado Springs, CO | Rocky Mountain Periodontal Specialists
Sit Back, Relax, and Smile Throughout Your Visit
If you’re feeling a little anxious about an upcoming dental visit, you aren’t alone; it’s estimated that thousands of Americans avoid going to the dentist to receive the care they need simply due to nerves! But thanks to sedation dentistry in Colorado Springs, you have absolutely nothing to be afraid of. Our team can utilize various sedation techniques to ensure that you’re physically and mentally at ease from the very moment you sit down. Read on to learn a little more about our available options or feel free to give us a call for more information or to schedule a visit.
Why Choose Rocky Mountain Periodontal Specialists for Sedation Dentistry?
- Multiple Sedation Methods Available
- Friendly and Experienced Dental Team
- Comfortable Office with Modern Amenities
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
For patients who feel nervous about the prospect of dental work, nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) is a relaxing aid that can help make even lengthy procedures very smooth. The process is simple; once you’re seated in the treatment chair, a breathing mask is applied to your mouth and nose. After a few minutes of breathing in the nitrous oxide, you'll feel content and at ease. Better yet, these results also wear off quickly once the treatment is complete, which means that patients can return to their regular routines and even drive themselves without extensive downtime.
Oral Conscious Sedation
If you’re in need of a stronger sedative, our team can provide a prescription for medication that you’ll take prior to the appointment (usually about an hour beforehand). It will begin to take effect once you arrive for your appointment, and once it takes hold, you should feel deeply relaxed and you might not remember much about the appointment, as if it were a dream. However, you’ll still need to make sure there’s someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
IV Sedation
If your dental phobia is severe, or if you would have trouble sitting still for a lengthy procedure, we can talk to you about using IV sedation during your visit. Since it’s administered directly into the bloodstream, it’s both fast-acting and effective. At the end of your appointment, you will need to have a trusted friend or family member drive you home since the effects won’t dissipate instantly. As always, we will review all of the necessary information during your first appointment. However, you’re also welcome to learn more right here!
What Is IV Sedation?
IV sedation is a powerful, but safe form of sedation that’s administered intravenously. After settling into the treatment chair, we will carefully place a small needle into the vein on the top of your hand or at the bend on your elbow. Shortly after, you’ll enter a deep state of relaxation. In fact, many patients have no recollection of their time in the treatment chair, even though they are conscious and can respond to verbal commands and questions.
Note: if you’re scared of needles, then we can apply a small amount of topical anesthetic beforehand to make the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Who Is a Good Candidate for IV Sedation?
IV sedation is popular among patients who struggle with severe dental-related anxiety, have neuromuscular issues that make it difficult to keep their mouth open for extended periods of time, have TMJ dysfunctions, or have sensitive gag reflexes. To determine if you’re a good candidate, we will review your medical history, take note of any allergies you have, discuss your anxiety levels, and review any medications you’re taking. With all of this information, we will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for IV sedation.
The Benefits of IV Sedation
There are several benefits of IV sedation! To begin, the sedative will be injected into your bloodstream, and we can adjust the levels as needed throughout your appointment. Although you’ll be extremely relaxed, you will not be unconscious; in fact, you’ll be perfectly capable of answering questions and following simple instructions. We will also keep a close eye on your vital signs all throughout your treatment in the interest of your safety and comfort. Of course, one of the most noteworthy benefits is that IV sedation can help patients who struggle with even the most severe anxiety get the dental care they need without the stress.
Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
The best way to determine if sedation dentistry in Colorado Springs is right for you is by coming in for a consultation so that we can review your medical history, discuss your smile goals, and determine the best course of action. That said, you’re likely a good candidate for sedation dentistry if:
- You’re anxious, afraid, or nervous during dental visits.
- You need help relaxing in the dental chair.
- Your gag reflex is sensitive.
- You don’t respond well to numbing medication alone.
- You have jaw, neck, back, or shoulder issues that make sitting in the dental chair uncomfortable.
- You’re undergoing long or complex dental treatment.