Sedation Dentistry
The hinges in front of your ears are actually called the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, and they are what allow your jaw to move fluidly whenever you eat, speak, laugh, or yawn. Like other joints in the body, it can often fall victim to strain or injury, leading to what is called TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder. This can bring on symptoms like a stiff and painful jaw, migraine headaches, earaches, and even unconscious teeth grinding. Fortunately, the team at Blossom Smiles Dental Association is ready to help patients find a solution for chronic jaw pain. If you believe you have TMD, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
For those with mild levels of anxiety, nitrous oxide sedation is likely the best option to manage and reduce nervousness during dental appointments. To receive the gas-based sedative, patients wear a small nasal mask that is worn throughout treatment. As the gas is gently inhaled, patients experience a relaxing, yet euphoric sensation that makes anxiety melt away! After treatment is complete, the sedative can be removed as quickly as it appeared, ensuring patients can easily continue their day without interruption.
Oral Conscious Sedation
If you have moderate levels of anxiety that nitrous oxide cannot properly address, oral conscious sedation can provide a more powerful solution for your dental phobia or nervousness. This sedative is taken orally prior to your dental appointment, which means you will need to have a friend or family member drive you to and from the office. Not only will you feel incredibly relaxed during your entire appointment, but you will likely forget most of the visit as well.
IV Sedation
Many dental patients only receive a mild sedative for treatment. Their fear isn’t too intense, or perhaps their procedure is short. Those with severe anxiety or extensive care needs, though, may require a potent kind. In that case, IV sedation is an ideal solution. By using the most powerful sedative we offer, this method promotes deep relaxation and calms even the most frayed nerves. To learn more about whether it’s right for you, just keep reading or call our office.