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Stress-Free Dental Care With Dr. Grubb
Dental anxiety is a serious issue that prevents millions of patients from receiving the care that they need. If you suffer from this condition, Dr. Grubb offers three forms of sedation dentistry to help you relax in the dental chair.
Learn about nitrous oxide, oral conscious, and IV sedation, as well as how they can benefit you.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask that’s placed over your nose. It takes effect almost immediately, providing you with a wave of euphoria that will help you remain calm throughout your treatment.
The effects of nitrous oxide can be reversed very quickly, so you’ll be able to drive yourself home. You’ll have little to no memory of your procedure, which will help reduce your anxiety for future dental appointments.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For this method of sedation dentistry, you’ll ingest a small pill an hour or two before your appointment and the medication will take effect by the time you arrive at our office. You’ll remain conscious but enter a state of deep relaxation, helping you get through your treatment stress-free.
Even though you’ll stay responsive during treatment, you won’t remember your experience after it’s over. Keep in mind that if you choose oral conscious sedation, you’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is Dr. Grubb’s preferred choice because it allows him to control and adjust your sedation level as needed during surgery. The medication is administered directly to your bloodstream, putting you in a state of “twilight sleep” where you’ll be conscious but feel no pain or anxiety.
Much like nitrous oxide, you won’t remember your treatment after it’s over. However, be advised that the effects of IV sedation can linger throughout the day so you’ll need a ride home from your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Can I eat before dental sedation?
What are some ways I can deal with dental anxiety?
Are there any aftercare guidelines following dental sedation?
How will I feel after dental sedation?
Can I talk during conscious sedation?
Can I eat before dental sedation?
In addition to following any pre-op recommendations by Dr. Grubb, it’s vital that you follow fasting guidelines and avoid eating or drinking for six hours prior to sedation. However, you may have water up to two hours prior to your appointment.
When you’re sedated, your reflexes are suppressed and if you have food or beverages in your stomach and become nauseous, you’re more likely to vomit and aspirate. If you eat or drink prior to sedation, your procedure will be canceled.
What are some ways I can deal with dental anxiety?
In the days leading up to your appointment, and the day of, there are some things you can do to decrease the anxiety you experience about going to the dentist. These include:
- Take slow, regular breaths— avoid holding your breath
- Listen to music if the sound of drilling bothers you
- Avoid caffeine
- Use hand signals if you experience discomfort
- Choose a time that doesn’t require you to rush to your appointment
- Trust your dentist or ask around for recommendations
If you have dental anxiety, tell Dr. Grubb and he’ll educate you about dental sedation techniques. He has over 35 years of experience treating patients, many of them with dental anxiety so you can trust that you’re in good hands with Dr. Grubb.
Are there any aftercare guidelines following dental sedation?
The aftercare guidelines depend on the type of sedation you received. If you received nitrous oxide, you’ll be fine to carry on with your day as you normally would. For any other form of sedation, you’ll want to follow any recommendations by Dr. Grubb and these guidelines to be safe:
- Take it easy — Don’t participate in activities that put you at risk for injury. You’ll be less coordinated and you might be off-balance
- Continue to move around — This will help your body metabolize the medication
- Drink water — You may be dehydrated following the procedure and water will help flush out the medicine
- Avoid foods that might upset your stomach because sedation can cause nausea
- If you have any concerns, call our office at (410) 939-5800 and we’ll be here for you
How will I feel after dental sedation?
How you feel after dental sedation depends on what type of sedation you receive. After nitrous oxide, you’ll quickly return to your normal self after 2 to 3 minutes. Following oral sedation and IV sedation, it typically takes 24 hours to metabolize the medication. You’ll need to have a ride home in these cases.
In addition to following any recommendations by our dentists, you’ll want to refrain from any activities that could physically harm you or another person. Stay hydrated and rest as needed.
Can I talk during conscious sedation?
During conscious sedation, you’ll be able to respond to questions and may or may not remember the procedure. You’ll be completely relaxed and free of worries. Most patients report a euphoric and calm sensation.
Other common side effects of dental sedation include:
- Delayed reflexes
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache
Dr. Grubb will be in communication with you throughout your treatment to ensure you’re comfortable and free of pain, so he can adjust the dosage as needed.
Ask Dr. Grubb About Our Dental Sedation Options
If you have dental anxiety, or if you’re undergoing a long and intensive procedure, sedation can improve your treatment experience.
Call our office in Havre de Grace at (410) 939-5800 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Grubb. He’ll be happy to discuss your sedation options and develop a customized treatment plan just for you.
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