Sedation
Sedation dentistry has revolutionized dental care for patients with anxiety, offering graduated levels of relaxation tailored to procedure complexity and patient needs. From mild relaxation to complete unconsciousness, these options provide greater comfort and predictability during dental procedures. Sedation dentistry also often allows for more dental treatment to be completed in fewer appointments, as the patient is completely relaxed for their care.
Nitrous Oxide
The Entry-Level Option
Nitrous oxide, commonly called "laughing gas," represents the mildest form of dental sedation known as "minimal sedation". Administered through a nasal mask, this gas induces a light euphoria while maintaining full consciousness. Its appeal lies in its immediate effect and rapid recovery—patients can typically drive themselves home afterward. The simplicity of nitrous oxide makes it ideal for mild anxiety or routine procedures, though its effectiveness varies among individuals.
IV Sedation
Precision and Control
Intravenous sedation represents a significant step up in both complexity and effectiveness. Administered directly into the bloodstream, IV sedation allows precise titration of medication levels throughout the procedure. This method produces a deeper state of relaxation known as "moderate sedation". With moderate sedation, patients remain technically conscious but often have limited to no memory of the procedure. Dr. Parque is specially trained to provide IV Sedation and has trained many doctors in providing this care. Here at Smiles of Spokane we take the highest level of precaution to deliver a highly predictable and safe patient experience.
Oral Sedation
The Middle Ground
Oral sedatives offer deeper relaxation through prescription medications taken before appointments. These medications - often benzodiazepines - produce A deeper degree of sedation than nitrous while maintaining consciousness. The complexity increases slightly as dosages must be carefully calculated based on patient weight and medical history. While more predictable than nitrous oxide, oral sedation's onset and duration can vary, making the experience somewhat less controllable than advanced methods.
General Anesthesia
Complete Control
The most advanced sedation option, general anesthesia, renders patients completely unconscious. This service can be provided in our office, but requires that we arrange for an anesthesia specialist to deliver the anesthesia. General anesthesia provides the most predictable patient experience in that there is no memory of the experience.
While it carries the highest risk profile, general anesthesia provides complete predictability for both patient experience and procedure execution, making it appropriate for extensive surgeries or patients with severe anxiety disorders.
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Quality of Life Impact
The psychosocial benefits of these treatments shouldn't be underestimated. Patients frequently report increased confidence in social and professional settings, improved self-image, and reduced anxiety about their appearance. This psychological boost often translates to more frequent smiling, better social engagement, and improved mental well-being.​
Additionally, by addressing dental problems early through cosmetic and restorative treatments, patients can avoid more complex and costly procedures later, contributing to long-term oral health and overall wellness.
