Dental anxiety is incredibly common and nothing to be ashamed of. Whether it’s the sound of the drill, past traumatic experiences, or a sensitive gag reflex, dental visits can be stressful for many patients. That’s where dental sedation comes in.
At SP Smile Dentistry, our experienced Miami sedation dentist is here to help you feel comfortable, relaxed, and confident about your dental care. We know that often starts before you even get to the office. That’s why we’ve answered some of the most common questions patients ask before undergoing sedation dentistry. Armed with this information, you’ll be more confident to come in for your appointment.
Does Dental Sedation Put You to Sleep?
The answer depends on the type of sedation used. There are different levels of sedation dentistry, including:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): This mild sedation keeps you awake but relaxed. It wears off quickly, so you can even drive yourself home afterward.
- Oral Conscious Sedation: You’ll take a prescribed pill before your appointment. It makes you drowsy, but most patients remain awake and can respond to instructions.
- IV Sedation: This provides a deeper level of sedation, and while you’re still technically conscious, many patients feel as if they’ve slept through the entire procedure.
- General Anesthesia: Reserved for complex cases, this is the only method where you are completely unconscious.
At SP Smile Dentistry, our sedation dentist in Miami offers laughing gas and oral sedation. That means that you won’t be asleep while we work on your smile, so you’ll be able to communicate and feel in control during your appointment.
Do You Feel Pain During Sedation?
No, you don’t feel pain during a procedure with dental sedation. In fact, one of the major benefits of sedation is that it suppresses pain and discomfort. In addition to the sedative, we use local anesthetics to numb the treatment area. That means you’ll remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
In fact, many patients tell us they don’t even remember the procedure afterward, making it ideal for those with dental phobias or for longer treatments like root canals or wisdom tooth removal.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is extremely safe when administered by a trained professional like our Miami sedation dentist. Our team is experienced in providing sedation for a wide range of procedures, from cleanings to oral surgery.
We help ensure your safety by checking your:
- Medical History
- Underlying Conditions
- Current Medications
- Any Allergies
- Height and Weight (for dosage)
Then, during the procedure, we monitor your vital signs continuously to make sure you’re still safe and comfortable.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients dealing with:
- Dental Anxiety or Phobia
- Low Pain Threshold
- Sensitive Gag Reflex
- Multiple or Complex Procedures
- Special Needs
- Past Traumatic Dental Experiences
If you’re unsure whether sedation is right for you, our sedation dentist in Miami will walk you through all your options during a personalized consultation.
How Long Does Dental Sedation Last?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of sedation used. With nitrous oxide, you’ll feel back to normal within minutes. That means you can head home right away. With oral conscious sedation, it may take several hours before the effects wear off, and you’ll need someone to drive you home. We always provide detailed post-care instructions to help you recover comfortably and safely.
Why Choose SP Smile Dentistry for Sedation Dentistry?
We believe that fear should never stand in the way of your dental health. Our compassionate team and experienced Miami sedation dentist offer this service to make it easier to get the care you need. We know there are a lot of barriers to dental care, but we don’t want anxiety or special needs to ever be one of them.
Access Stress-Free Dentistry in Miami
If you’ve been putting off dental treatment due to anxiety or fear, now’s the time to take the first step. Schedule a consultation with our sedation dentist in Miami, and let’s talk about how we can help you reclaim your smile without the stress. Call SP Smile Dentistry today or book online to learn more about your sedation options.
