Sedation Options

Most Americans experience some level of dental fear or anxiety. One in five actually avoid dental care because of it. At Fremont Natural Dentistry, we do all we can to help you avoid being one of them, as our first priority is making you feel comfortable and safe.

Simple Solutions for Dental Society

Whatever your individual level of apprehension may be, our office is committed to making sure that your visit is as comfortable, quick, and easy as possible.

Letting us know what you’re afraid of is a great place to start. Often, we can quell anxiety simply by giving you information as to what you can expect. We will always keep you informed before, during, and after your procedure, making sure that you understand what’s going on and why we’re doing it.

Many patients find it helpful to practice calming techniques such as controlled breathing during their appointments or finding distraction in the treatment room.

During most procedures, you’re free to use personal headphones or earbuds. Listening to music – or an audiobook or podcast – is a great way to keep calm and pass the time while in the chair.

At any time you feel the need to take a short break during treatment, you can signal us with your left hand so you can take a breather.

The Sedation Option

Sometimes, anxiety is enough that light sedation may be needed or desired for a smooth and easy dental visit. When that’s the case, we have a couple options to choose from:

Oral Conscious Sedation

Dr. Yoshida is certified to administer oral conscious sedation, sometimes called “sleep dentistry.” This is an excellent option if you’re scheduled for a particularly lengthy procedure or if multiple treatments are to be done in a single visit.

Dr. Yoshida will prescribe a small amount of anti-anxiety medication to be taken before your visit. Most often, these are benzodiazepines – drugs such as Valium, Halcion, Xanax, or Ativan – which work by binding and toning down activity within fear receptors in the brain.

These drugs are also central nervous system depressants, so it’s important that they not be mixed with other such substances, such as alcohol. It’s also critical to take only the dose Dr. Yoshida prescribes, as overdose is possible, which could lower your breathing to dangerously low levels, which could result in coma or death.

Please note that you shouldn’t travel on your own after you’ve taken any of these drugs. Make sure you have an escort, even if you traveled by bus or foot! It’s easy to become disorientated.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas that’s been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. You’re able to breathe on your own and remain in control at all times, even as the gas makes you deeply relaxed. In fact, you may experience mild amnesia or fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during your appointment.

Another benefit is that the depth of sedation can be changed at any time, increasing or decreasing it as needed. Nitrous works rapidly and without side effects, so you can safely travel to and from your appointment on your own.

While those diagnosed with COPD or have breathing difficulties should not receive nitrous oxide, for most people, it’s a helpful way to remain calm through their dental treatments.

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