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Sedation Dentistry

63rd Street Dental

General Dentist & Cosmetic Dentist located in Upper East Side, New York, NY

Did you know that between 9-20% of Americans suffer from dental anxiety? If the thought of visiting the dentist makes your heart race and your palms sweat, you may want to consider sedation dentistry. Dana Kapparova, DDS, Amanda Golub, DDS, and the team at 63rd Street Dental in New York City proudly offers sedation dentistry using nitrous oxide. If you’re putting off necessary dental care, make an appointment today by calling the office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, or using the online booking tool.

Sedation Dentistry Q & A

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a branch of oral health care that uses medication to help patients relax during dental treatments. Many people use the terms sedation dentistry and sleep dentistry interchangeably. However, the term sleep dentistry isn’t entirely accurate. During sedation dentistry, you’re relaxed but awake. If necessary, you can also answer your dentist’s questions or follow their instructions. 

What types of sedation dentistry do you offer?

The team at 63rd Street Dental does not have an anesthesiologist on staff. However, they do offer two types of sedation dentistry:

Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide is a sedative that you inhale through an oxygen mask. Nitrous oxide doesn’t put you to sleep, but it does ease anxiety and help you relax. After inhaling nitrous oxide, you’re still conscious and aware of your surroundings. However, you’ll start to feel a warm, tingly, and floating sensation. You might also find yourself giggling from time to time, hence its nickname: laughing gas. 

Oral sedation

Oral sedation is a type of sedation dentistry that involves you taking a prescription medication like Halcion. Halcion is in the same family of drugs as Valium and helps you feel drowsy and relaxed. To ensure the best possible results, take your prescription medication an hour before your procedure. 

Am I a good candidate for sedation dentistry?

At 63rd Street Dental, the team usually recommends sedation dentistry for people with a real fear or anxiety of visiting the dentist. You may benefit from sedation dentistry if you:

  • Have a low pain tolerance
  • Have trouble sitting still
  • Have very sensitive teeth
  • Have a bad gag reflex

You might also benefit from sedation dentistry if you need to undergo an extensive amount of dental work. 

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Sedation dentistry is safe and well-tolerated, but it isn’t without risks. If you are obese or have sleep apnea, talk to your dentist, as you’re also more likely to experience complications from anesthesia. 

During your initial consultation, you should let your dentist know about any prescription medications, vitamins, or supplements you’re taking. This is because certain substances may prevent the anesthesia from working as it should. 

If you’ve been putting off dental work for months or even years as a result of fear, it’s time to learn more about sedation dentistry. Request an appointment at 63rd Street Dental today by calling the office or by using the online booking tool.