Sedation Dentistry in Gig Harbor, WA

A woman being sedated with a gas mask at the dentist

Are dental fears keeping you from seeing your dentist? Uptown Dental Gig Harbor offers our patients sedation dentistry to make your visit as comfortable as possible.

Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients who want don’t to see the dentist due to anxiety or fear. Sedation is also beneficial for patients who:

  • Have extremely sensitive teeth
  • Are sensitive to pain
  • Have difficulty remaining still in the dental chair
  • Require a lot of dental surgery
Levels of Sedation
There a is number of levels of sedation:
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Minimal Sedation

You are fully relaxed and awake during your procedure. This is given to patients who have lower anxiety or require more complex or longer dental procedures. This lightest level of sedation is usually administered orally.

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Moderate Sedation

Formerly known as “conscious sedation”, you will remain awake yet in a deeper state of relaxation. You may slur your words or not remember parts of the procedure. This sedation is given to patients with moderate levels of fear or anxiety and who require more complex or longer dental work. It may take several hours for the sedative effects to wear off, so it’s best to have a family or friend drive you home.

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Deep Sedation

You will drift back and forth between consciousness and unconsciousness during your procedure. Oftentimes, patients may not remember anything about their procedure. Again, it’s best to have someone you trust drive you home since it can take several hours for the sedative effects to wear off.

How Are Sedatives Administered?
Dental sedation is given via:
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Inhalation

The patient will be given nitrous oxide along with oxygen through a facemask. The effects generally wear off quickly and the patient will be able to drive themselves home.

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Oral

An oral sedative will be given to the patient who has to take it an hour before their appointment. Once they arrive, they will be relaxed yet awake.

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IV

The sedative method is given through an IV, so the effects are faster. The dentist can easily adjust the amount of sedation the patient receives to ensure they are comfortable.

Along with sedation, you will also usually receive a local anesthetic to numb your mouth, ensuring you don’t feel pain during your procedure.

If you have any questions about sedation dentistry contact … Click to go to the page of contact … Uptown Dental Gig Harbor today to schedule a consultation.