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Sedation Dentistry

Dental phobia and anxiety is a common condition across the world. But the good news is, Dr. Buttaro offers painless, effective ways to alleviate your anxiety in the dentist chair. Some of the options for oral sedation that you can choose from are: 

  • Nitrous oxide - This type of sedation is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax. Nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” is one option Dr. Buttaro may offer to help make you more comfortable during certain procedures. It is not intended to put you to sleep. You will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions the dentist may have. She will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes you should start to feel the effects of the nitrous oxide. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some people say their arms and legs feel heavy. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed so you are able to drive home after your appointment is completed.

 

  • Oral Sedation - This type of sedation comes in a form of a pill. At your sedation consultation Dr. Buttaro will review your medical history and determine which type of oral sedation is best for you. Though oral sedatives do not cause sleep, they usually dull the senses. This means that most patients cannot remember the pain, smells or noises associated with the procedure. You will take your oral sedation 90 minutes prior to your dental appointment and your companion will drive you to and from your appointment. Driving the rest of the day is not permitted.

This type of sedation works to relax your body and mind, and though it is not a sleeping pill, many patients are so tranquil they do fall asleep. You will be left feeling a bit drowsy afterwards, but that’s a small debt to dissolve your anxiety.

Whichever method or medication you chose, you can be confident that it is being administered professionally by Dr. Buttaro. Before you are given any type of sedation, your medical history and current medications will be reviewed. 

Talk with Dr. Buttaro today about the best sedation option for you.