Gentle Dental Visits Start Here – Oral Sedation Dentistry in Calgary
Dental anxiety, often driven by fear of discomfort, affects many patients. Auburn Bay Dental addresses this with safe and effective oral sedation dentistry in Calgary—ideal for those who need a little extra reassurance during their visit.
Sedation is suitable for everything from regular cleanings to advanced treatments, adjusted based on your anxiety level. Schedule your visit at Auburn Bay Dental for a calm, comfortable experience.
Minimal Stress, Maximum Comfort
Sedation involves taking sedative medication in pill form before the treatment starts. The main purpose is to reduce anxiety and make dental visits more comfortable.
The effects can vary based on the dosage and the individual’s response to the medication. Patients stay awake but feel much more at ease, so our dentist can perform necessary treatments with minimal stress. Feel free to ask our dentist if you think sedation might be right for you.
Is Oral Sedation Right For You?
Dental sedation is not a routine procedure. Dentists generally suggest the use of sedatives only for lengthy or more complex procedures in surgical dentistry. Aside from complex procedures, some patients may also be qualified for sedation including those who:
- Have a low tolerance for pain
- Struggling to stay still in the dentist’s chair
- Experience heightened tooth sensitivity
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Require extensive dental work
In some cases, children may be given sedation if they are extremely anxious about the dentist or are unable to cooperate during the appointment. However, only a limited number of pediatric dentists are trained to safely administer this type of sedation. When given the appropriate dosage based on a child’s age and weight, sedation can be a safe and effective way to help them feel more at ease during treatment.
Personalized Sedation Choices: Oral Sedation or General Anesthesia?
Oral Sedative (Conscious Sedation) | General Anesthesia (Unconscious) |
Controlled use of sedative medications slows brain activity and allows the patient to stay conscious but relaxed. | Induce a complete and controlled loss of consciousness in patients undergoing major dental procedures or dealing with certain medical conditions. |
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Types of Sedation at Auburn Bay Dental
There are different levels of sedation that our dentists use depending on the procedure and your level of anxiety. Our dentists select the sedatives for their safety, and in most cases, you can go home shortly after the procedure once any lingering effects of the medication have worn off.
Minimal Sedation
Uses medication that leads to a state of relaxation and reduced anxiety. You remain conscious and can respond to verbal commands, but it diminishes your level of awareness. Functions, such as breathing and heart rate, are not affected.
Advantages
- Affordable and easy to administer.
- Beneficial for patients with certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, renal or hepatic disease, epilepsy, and diabetes.
Moderate Sedation
A deeper level than laughing gas or nitrous oxide sedation. The administration is oral in pill form and involves multiple drug options. This level is for patients undergoing surgical extractions or multiple treatments in one visit.
Advantages
- Allows patients to remain conscious and breathe independently.
- Best for patients who find it challenging to endure lengthy procedures due to physical discomfort or mental anxiety.
Dental Procedures That Require Sedation
Dental sedation may not be necessary for every patient or every procedure. Many patients can relax without assistance, no matter the treatment. If dental fear impacts your oral health or if pain causes significant anxiety, sedation could be the ideal solution, especially for lengthy procedures that require you to remain still for extended periods.
- Cleaning or dental checkup
- Removing wisdom teeth
- Bone grafting for dental implants
- Root Canal
- Tooth Extraction
A Closer Look at Our Dental Process
Pre-Treatment
You’ll take oral sedatives before we begin your dental procedure. The medication may take up to an hour to be absorbed into your system. Once it takes effect, we’ll closely monitor to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
During the Procedure
Any feelings of anxiety or stress will subside as the medication takes effect. You may experience a tingling sensation in your limbs and a feeling of heaviness.
Post-Treatment
Recovery from the effects is quick, although some may linger throughout the day. We will monitor your vital signs before we discharge you. Other things to consider after the effects subside:
- You’ll need a designated driver to take you home.
- Avoid work or strenuous activities.
- Consume foods that are easy to chew and digest.
- Avoid hot beverages or foods to prevent accidental burns.
The Answer to “Oral Sedation Dentistry Near Me” Is Auburn Bay Dental
Don’t let dental anxiety hold you back from a healthy smile. Our dental team at Auburn Bay Dental offer various sedation and sleep dentistry options for a comfortable and needle-free experience. We can discuss and recommend the best approach for you.
Schedule your appointment for a healthier smile. Email us at info@auburnbaydentalclinic.com or call 403-984-1151.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be unconscious during my dental procedure?
The level of consciousness during a procedure depends on the type of sedative used. Minimal and moderate will provide a conscious experience, but you will feel relaxed and less anxious. In some cases, you may have limited memory. General anesthesia or deep sedation is one of the options that provides unconsciousness throughout the procedure.
How long do the effects last?
The sedative medication wears off after 2-8 hours. Plan to have a friend or family member accompany you home, as you may feel groggy or drowsy for a while after the procedure. During this time, avoid intense physical activity and allow your body to fully recover. For more extensive treatments, your dentist will discuss the options and recovery times.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry in Calgary?
IV sedation might be included in insurance policies if this is medically required. Read your insurance information before going to the dentist for your dental appointment. Our team will review your coverage and create a treatment plan that fits your budget.