Your Guide to Sedation Dentistry Appointments

Patient relaxed in the dental chair during sedation dentistry at Modern Touch Dental Glendale.

Sedation dentistry has become an increasingly popular dental solution for people who suffer from fear, anxiety, or discomfort during dental appointments. At Modern Touch Dental Glendale, we’re well-versed in how nerve-wracking dental appointments can be for some individuals, so we proudly offer sedation dentistry options at our Glendale, WI practice. Whether you visit us for a regular cleaning or a more complicated procedure, our goal is to help you feel calm, safe, and confident throughout your appointment.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves medication usage to put patients in a relaxed state during dental procedures. It’s not about putting you to sleep — unless a dentist uses general anesthesia — but rather keeping you conscious and responsive while feeling at ease. Dentists may use sedation for various procedures, including fillings, root canals, extractions, and even cleanings for patients with severe dental sensitivity or phobias. There are several types of sedation available, including the following:

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) – A mild sedation option that patients inhale using a mask, often used for shorter procedures.
Oral Sedation – This method comes in pill form that you take before your appointment. It provides moderate sedation and is ideal for patients with higher anxiety levels.
IV Sedation – IV sedation goes directly into your bloodstream and offers deeper relaxation. Dentists typically use this option for more involved procedures.
General Anesthesia – Dental offices reserve this method for complex surgeries because it renders the patient completely unconscious.

How Do I Prepare for Scheduled Sedation Dentistry?

At Modern Touch Dental Glendale, our team will walk you through every detail before your appointment to ensure you’re fully prepared. We’ll explain the type of sedation being used, what to expect during the procedure, and how to care for yourself afterward. But here’s a general outline of how to prepare:

Don’t eat or drink anything for a specified period before your appointment, especially if you’re receiving oral or IV sedation.
Arrange transportation to and from the office because you won’t be able to drive yourself home.
Wear comfortable clothing so you can relax while your dental team carries out the procedure.
Disclose your medical history and any medications you take to ensure safe sedation.
Follow any specific instructions our team provides regarding your sedation type.

What Happens During a Sedation Dentistry Appointment?

When you arrive at our office, our friendly staff will explain every step of the sedation process. You may receive medication orally, through an IV, or via inhalation at a dental practice. The means of sedation depend on the type your dentist chooses. Once the sedation takes effect, you’ll feel relaxed and possibly drowsy, but you’ll still be able to respond to verbal cues unless you’re under general anesthesia. Throughout the procedure, the dental team will monitor your vital signs to ensure your safety. Most patients report feeling like the appointment flew by or that they barely remember it at all. Afterward, you’ll need someone to drive you home, especially if you’ve had oral or IV sedation. The effects of these sedation options can linger for several hours.

Common Myths About Sedation Dentistry

Despite its growing popularity, sedation dentistry is still surrounded by misconceptions. Let’s clear up a few of the most common myths:

Myth: Dentists only use sedation dentistry for major procedures. Dentists can use sedation for regularly scheduled teeth cleanings, especially for patients with anxiety or sensitivity.
Myth: You’ll be completely unconscious. Most forms of sedation keep you awake but relaxed. Only general anesthesia puts you fully to sleep.
Myth: Sedation dentistry isn’t safe. When administered by trained professionals like our team at Modern Touch Dental Glendale, sedation is extremely safe and closely monitored.

Essential Facts About Post-Sedation Care

After your appointment, it’s important to rest and allow the sedation to wear off completely. You may feel groggy or sleepy for a few hours, so avoid operating machinery or making important decisions. Drink plenty of water, eat soft foods if needed, and follow any aftercare instructions provided by your dental care team. If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your dental practice right away.

FAQS About Sedation Dentistry

We often hear questions from patients who are curious or concerned about sedation dentistry. Here are a few of our patients’ most common questions and our answers to them:

Is Sedation Dentistry Covered by Insurance? Coverage varies by provider and procedure. Our team can help you check with your insurance company to understand your benefits.
Will I Feel Any Pain During the Procedure? Sedation significantly reduces discomfort, and we may also use local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel pain.
How Long Does It Take for Sedation to Wear Off? It depends on the type your dental team uses. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, while oral and IV sedation may take several hours.

Modern Touch Dental Glendale Is Ready to Care for Your Smile

At Modern Touch Dental Glendale, we’re proud to offer a wide range of dental services, from general and cosmetic care to restorative and emergency treatments. Sedation dentistry is just one of the many ways we help our patients feel comfortable and confident during their visits. Whether you’re nervous about a procedure or simply want a more relaxed experience, we’re glad to help. Reach out to us today to learn more about our sedation options and how we can make your next dental appointment less stressful.