We understand that sitting in the dental chair isn’t everyone’s favorite task on their to-do list. Dental anxiety or fear of the dentist is something a lot of patients must overcome to receive dental care. However, our office strives to provide all of our patients with a comfortable dentistry experience. We are a compassionate team of dental professionals who look forward to answering any and all questions you might have about your dentistry experience.
Additionally, we provide sedation dentistry services. Through the use of laughing gas, local anesthetics, and oral sedation options, we can ensure that you remain relaxed and pain-free while receiving your necessary dental procedures.
Sedation Dentistry in Towson, MD
Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson are experienced general dentists in Towson, MD. Together, they provide compassionate care to patients of all ages in our Towson dental office. Patients should expect nothing but excellence from their dental care experience in our office. Even our most nervous patients can look forward to sitting in our dental chairs with the help of our sedation dentistry services.
Sedation Dentistry Options
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous Oxide is gas that dentists use often to help patients relax. We often refer to it as ‘laughing gas’. If you choose this sedation method, we will place a small mask over your nose where you will inhale the gas through the whole dentist appointment. This gas will put you in a deep state of relaxation. It will not make you fall asleep however, as a mild sedative, some patients will fall asleep because they are so relaxed and calm. In this state, you will not feel any anxiety or fear. The gas’s effects will happen immediately and stop as soon as the mask is removed.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a pill before the appointment. We will supply you with a prescription and directions on how and when to take it. Since it is in pill form, it will take some time to feel the effects and for them to wear off. For this reason, you will need a ride to and from your appointment. The effects are similar to that of nitrous oxide. You will be in a deep state of relaxation and not feel anxiety or fear during your appointment.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe. Our doctors would never do anything to put our patient’s health and safety at risk. We will consult with you on your medical history before recommending any sedative options. We will also monitor you throughout the appointment to ensure the sedatives are working as they should and help you remain calm and comfortable every step of the way.
What are other things I can do to remain calm at the dentist?
If you are especially nervous about visiting the dentist, consider bringing along a friend to keep you company. It may also help to bring in some headphones and listen to music during your procedure to distract from any unfamiliar equipment noises. We find that the best way to address fear of the dentist is to encourage patients to ask questions. Anyone from our team is happy to explain our procedures to you so that you know what to expect from your appointment.
Who needs sedation dentistry?
We typically suggest that patients with a low pain threshold, dental anxiety, fear of the dentist, sensitive teeth, or a strong gag reflex use sedation dentistry. Dental sedation has helped many patients of all ages receive necessary dental care. It is especially helpful for patients who have avoided the dentist for years and need to get their oral health back on track.
What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a mild sedative that you will inhale through a mask. It helps patients relax while remaining awake and aware of their surroundings. For many years, dentists have safely used this type of sedation
Can children use sedation dentistry?
Yes, children can use sedation dentistry. If your child is scared of the dentist, we can use nitrous oxide to treat your child. Dental sedation is especially helpful for children who fear dental visits or need extensive dental work.
Will I feel pain during my dental procedure?
The purpose of dental sedation is to reduce anxiety and discomfort. You may still be able to feel discomfort and pressure. However, we will still use local anesthetic so you don’t experience pain. There is a big chance you will not remember the procedure.
How long does dental sedation last?
The duration of your sedative state depends on the type of sedation you use. Nitrous oxide wears off when we remove the mask, and you are no longer breathing in the gas. On the other hand, oral sedation can last several hours. If you choose oral sedation, you will remain in that state until your body metabolizes it.
Can I drive home safely after sedation dentistry?
If you are receiving nitrous oxide, you can drive home safely. However, if you take oral sedation, you will need someone to drive you home. Oral sedatives take longer to wear off, so it will not be safe for you to drive a car.
Will my dental insurance cover sedation dentistry?
It depends on the type of policy you have. Some insurance plans cover sedation dentistry, especially if your procedure is deemed medically necessary and is complex. We suggest that you check with your insurance provider for more details.
Will I remember my dental procedure?
Patients who receive nitrous oxide may remember some parts of the procedure. Those who undergo oral sedation often have little to no memory of the experience.
Can I use dental sedation to get complex dental procedures?
Yes, sedation dentistry will make your complex procedures more manageable. It will help you remain calm and relaxed so the dentist can treat you. The effects of the dental sedation will last throughout the entire dental process.
Comfortable Dentistry Experience in Towson, MD
You deserve to experience excellent dental care while remaining calm and comfortable. Don’t let a negative experience at another practice impact the state of your dental health. If you are looking for a comfortable dentistry experience in Towson, MD, we hope that you will consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson.