SEDATION DENTISTRY

For small children, handicapped adults or children and patients with a "dental phobia," Associates for Dental Care offers sedation options beyond traditional novacaine treatments. Call our office for more information.

Nitrous Oxide

At Associates for Dental Care we are not only concerned with the quality of treatment but your comfort during and after as well. One of the options that we offer at Associates for Dental Care is Nitrous Oxide Sedation, otherwise known as laughing gas. This non-invasive treatment that is simply inhaled, with a slightly sweet smell provides a sense of well being and allows for a calm and relaxing experience. This option is particularly good for individuals with dental anxiety, or those who are undergoing a number of treatments in one visit. The expertise of the staff makes Nitrous Oxide sedation a safe, effective and convenient option.

Prior to your appointment:

• Please inform us of any change to your health and/or medical condition.
• Tell us about any respiratory condition that makes breathing through the nose difficult for you. It may limit the effectiveness of the nitrous oxide/oxygen.
• Let us know if you are taking any medication on the day of the appointment.

Conscious Sedation

Conscious Sedation is recommended for adults with special needs and those who are very apprehensive about being in a dentist's chair. It is used to calm you and to reduce the anxiety or discomfort associated with dental treatments. You may be quite drowsy, and may even fall asleep, but you will not become unconscious.

There are a variety of different medications that can be used for conscious sedation. The doctor will prescribe the medication best suited for your overall health and dental treatment recommendations. We will be happy to answer any questions you might have concerning the specific drugs we plan to give to you.

Prior to your appointment:

• Please notify us of any change in your health and/or medical condition. Do not come in for treatment with a fever, ear infection or cold. Should you become ill, contact us to see if it is necessary to postpone the appointment.
• You must tell the doctor of any drugs that you are currently taking and any drug reactions and/or change in medical history.
• Please dress in loose fitting, comfortable clothing.
• Please make sure you go to the bathroom immediately prior to arriving at the office.
• You should not have solid food for at least 6 hours prior to their sedation appointment and only clear liquids for up to 4 hours before the appointment.
• An adult should accompany you to the appointment and drive you home. After the sedation appointment:
• You will be drowsy and will need to be monitored very closely. Someone should be at home with you.
• If you want to sleep, do so on your side with their chin up. Sent an alarm clock to wake yourself up every hour and have something to drink in order to prevent dehydration. At first it is best to take sips of clear liquids to prevent nausea. The first meal should be light and easily digestible.
• We use local anesthetic to numb your mouth during the procedure and your lips, cheek and tongue may remain numb for awhile.