OPTIONS TO HELP YOU RELAX
We know that for some patients, a trip to see the dentist can be daunting. Dental phobia and anxiety are very real and can be quite debilitating. At Macadam Dental, our staff cares deeply not only about keeping your mouth healthy but also about ensuring that you are comfortable and relaxed here. We don’t want you to be afraid to come in for a dental procedure so we provide several options to help put you at ease.
Nitrous Oxide
One of the most commonly used sedatives is called nitrous oxide. Often referred to as “laughing gas,” it is a safe gas that is pumped (combined with oxygen) into a small mask worn over your nose during treatment. It causes a state of relaxation. Some patients just report feeling calm while others report a tingling feeling throughout their body. Once the treatment is complete, you will breathe pure oxygen for a short time, and with the effects of the nitrous oxide worn off, you will be safe to drive yourself home after your procedure.
Anxiety Reducing Medication
Medicine such as Halcion and Valium, is taken orally about an hour before your procedure. Putting you into a deeper state of relaxation that does not wear off as easily, you will need a ride to and from the office and should take the rest of the day off work or other activities to let the effects wear off gently and to give you time to relax and recover.
IV Sedation
If you require a more moderate form of sedation, we can offer you IV sedation through the qualified care of a mobile anesthesiologist. The sedative drug will be administered through a vein and will go to work quickly right before the procedure in the comfort of our office. The anesthesiologist will be present during your entire appointment to ensure your comfort and safety. In most cases, you won’t remember the details of your visit. As with the administration of any sedative, you will need to have a friend or family member drive you to your appointment.
