Sedation Options & Dental Anxiety
It’s easy to let dental anxiety get the better of you and avoid seeing your dentist, but unfortunately dental problems tend to become tougher and more expensive to fix over time if neglected.
Our dentists are very gentle and our staff work to make your appointments as comfortable as possible – but if you’re extremely anxious we have sedation options available.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas)
What is it?
Nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) is widely used in dentistry for its pain reducing and anxiety reducing effects. When administered properly by a professional, it is a very effective and safe way of helping with dental anxiety.
Will I be asleep?
Nitrous oxide is called ‘conscious sedation’ – you are still awake and able to move and speak if you need to, but will generally be quite relaxed and calm
How long does it last?
Nitrous oxide gas is very quickly cleared from your system, and you’ll generally be back to normal within a few minutes of your dental appointment. Because it doesn’t last long and is quickly reversible, it’s extremely safe. We use a digital machine with disposable masks for your peace of mind. .
Can it be used on children?
Laughing gas is one of the safest methods of helping children cope with their dental appointments, but there are certain age restrictions as the children’s nose mask needs to be able to fit and be tolerated. It’s best to book a consultation so we can assess whether your child is able to have treatment under laughing gas.
Are there alternatives to nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide isn’t for everyone – if you’ve had a bad reaction to it in the past or it didn’t work for you, we may be able to find a different option for you. Book a consult with one of our dentists to find out more about oral sedation (tablets).
Book an appointment
Generally, we do a consult before a procedure to make sure it’s right for you, your medical conditions and your level of anxiety. Book an appointment now.
Working Together to make your procedure more Comfortable
We understand sitting in a dentist’s chair may be frightening for some. you can do to help relax you before your dental appointments:
- Discuss your concerns with us before your procedure appointment so we know which parts of the appointment you may need some extra reassurance in. This can also help us discuss possible sedation options.
- Meditation before your appointment, or to help you get a good nights’ sleep before your appointment.
- Bring some music with you – this is especially helpful if you struggle with the sounds.
- Avoid caffeine the day or two before your appointment, as a good nights’ sleep helps to reduce anxiety
- Breathing exercises to reduce your heart rate with a focus on exhaling for longer than you inhale. This reduces your ‘fight or flight’ response, and therefore helps to alleviate anxiety. This is a great technique to start while you are in the waiting room.
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