There are plenty of people who are hesitant to get their dental work done even with the many advances in technology. For those patients there is sedation dentistry.
Sedation dentistry includes the use of Valium, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), Triazolam, and, if necessary, IV sedation or general anesthesia.
The use of Valium in conjunction with a few minutes of nitrous oxide can really reduce the amount of anxiety patients will have while getting their work done. This is most effective for the patient that doesn't really mind dentistry but wants something to take the edge off.
When Triazolam is used, the patient will experience oral conscious sedation. This should only be done by a dentist with an oral sedation license. (By the way, New Jersey has one of the hardest licensing requirements in the U.S.) Although oral conscious sedation is extremely safe and effective, certain protocols should be followed strictly.
Oral conscious sedation is extremely effective in reducing all anxiety and fears. Most patients do not recall the dental appointment at all and the medications even reduce the post operative discomfort. I have found oral sedation be the biggest game changer in improving the dental experience for patients.
Lastly, if a patient is a terrible gagger or if his/her fear is too great to be calmed by oral sedation, we can involve an anesthesiologist to administer IV sedation or general anesthesia. Both are more effective than oral sedation but carry additional risk and are more expensive.
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