You don’t need to dread the dentist chair with sedation dentistry at SP Smile Dentistry. Our Miami sedation dentistry expert, Dr. Susel Perez, offers solutions for those who flinch at the mere mention of a dentist appointment. Below, we walk you through the two most popular options and help you decide which is right for you.
Nitrous Oxide vs. Oral Conscious Sedation
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) has been used for dental anesthesia since the 1800s according to the American Dental Association (ADA). It creates a relaxed feeling, slows down reactions, and reduces pain perception. Nitrous takes effect fast but still allows you to remain responsive. It also wears off quickly, so you can drive yourself home.
For oral conscious sedation, you take oral sedatives about an hour before a procedure. With this method, you get a deeper level of relaxation and may fall into a twilight sleep without remembering anything. Unlike nitrous, which requires a constant flow of gas, oral conscious sedation is a set-it-and-forget-it approach. However, you’ll likely need a ride home afterward.
Factor to Consider #1: Anxiety
Both sedation methods provide relaxation, so if you have a phobia or are just a bit nervous, you’ll feel better with either choice. However, oral conscious sedation is typically more potent. If you have serious fears, our sedation dentist in Miami, FL, might decide that stronger sedation is a better choice.
Factor to Consider #2: Medical History
Not only the type but also the level of sedation needs to fit your individual needs and background. As a result, we take a thorough history of:
- Existing medical conditions
- Medications you’re currently taking
- Any relevant allergies
- Previous adverse reactions to sedatives
You’ll be able to relax even better knowing that whatever sedation option you choose, you’ll be safe at SP Smile Dentistry.
Factor to Consider #3: Type of Procedure
Some patients need sedation for routine cleanings or checkups due to a dental phobia or special needs. In that case, nitrous might be enough to relax you. However, for long or complex procedures, we might recommend the longer-lasting oral conscious sedation. This will make the time pass quicker as well as make our job easier.
Factor to Consider #4: Budget
The cost of sedation varies based on the dental procedure, your insurance, and other factors. Rest assured that SP Smile Dentistry will go over your financial and insurance options. Nitrous is often the more budget-friendly option, but we want to make sure you get the sedation that fits your needs.
Factor to Consider #5: Miami Sedation Dentistry Advice
Since Dr. Perez is trained in sedation techniques, she can offer nuanced advice on the best option for your particular case. Plus, our practice creates excellent long-term dentist-patient relationships. That means we can apply our existing knowledge of you and your dental history to our analysis. You’ll get personalized suggestions from experts.
Let’s Talk Sedation Options Today
Contact SP Smile Dentistry and start a conversation with our sedation dentist in Miami, FL. You are always free to voice your concerns and preferences openly. The point of our sedation services is to make you feel safe and comfortable, so we make sure the dialogue about sedation does the same. Schedule a consultation now!
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