DO YOU FEAR DENTAL TREATMENT?

Attending the dentist can sometimes be a daunting prospect if you haven’t had dental treatment for some time or if you are undergoing more complex dental procedures. Thankfully if you are particularly nervous there is one treatment option which might work for you! Dental sedation allows you to feel more comfortable during treatment whilst still being fully awake during treatment.

What is dental sedation?
Dental sedation is available in numerous types from oral(tablet ) to Nitrous oxide (happy gas) and IV sedation.

What is involved?
During sedation you are still awake for the procedure but the action of the sedative enduces a relaxed state . The feeling is one of complete relaxation with very little memory of the procedure itself.During nitrous oxide sedation a mask is placed over the nose (these can be scented if desired particularly useful for children)The gas is inhaled though the nose during the procedure. The gas is comprised of nitrous oxide and is commonly known as laughing gas.

Is everyone suitable?
Nitrous oxide sedation is suitable for both adults and children.It is not suitable for pregnant women. If you suffer from a respiratory condition ie severe asthma, COPD,bronchitis then you are most likely not suitable for treatment. Common colds, and allergies may prevent treatment on the day as it impairs the ability to breath the gas in sufficiently.

Dental sedation is particularly useful for children if they are anxious ,or are needle phobic or in cases where a general anaesthetic is not advisable.

What procedures can be done under sedation?
All treatments can be done under sedation from dental scaling/cleaning, treatment of gum disease to more complex treatments such as crown and bridgework.

Does it work if you have a strong gag reflex?
Sedation works particularly well if you have a strong gag reflex as it relaxes the muscle and reduces the gagging sensation. It is excellent if taking dental impressions(moulds of the teeth)are required for those that are very sensitive.

Is there any downtime?
When receiving nitrous oxide sedation or laughing gas the clinician will monitor you after treatment . You will not be discharged from the clinic until you are fully recovered.

For further details contact Dr Susan Crean Dental and Facial aesthetics.,
12 Denny street Tralee on
066 7117577 or
info@creandental.ie