Sedation Dentistry in Daytona Beach
Dental phobia is a serious and common condition among children and adults alike, with many people skipping necessary appointments because of their fear. At Indigo Dental of Daytona Beach, our team works hard to create a warm, welcoming environment, but we understand that isn’t always enough. That’s why sedation dentistry is also available here in Daytona Beach, FL for patients who need a little extra help relaxing. If it’s been too long since your last checkup, feel free to contact us today and schedule a visit.
Request an AppointmentWhat Sedation Dentistry Options Are Available?
You may feel skeptical about the idea of feeling fully at ease during a dental appointment after years of worry, but we ask that you trust us. Oral conscious sedation comes in the form of prescribed medication, and we’ll provide clear instructions for when to take it before your scheduled appointment. Once the effects start, patients feel deeply comfortable while remaining aware enough to respond to our staff throughout the procedure.
Once treatment is complete and you’ve had time to recover from the effects, it’s likely you’ll remember very little about the time you spent in our office — an ideal outcome for many patients. All we ask is that you arrange for a trusted friend or family member to escort you to and from your appointment.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
In addition to oral conscious sedation, nitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is also available at Indigo Dental of Daytona Beach. Nitrous oxide helps patients feel more relaxed within minutes, and its biggest benefit is that the effects wear off quickly, so you can get back to your day without lingering downtime.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?
This form of sedation is ideal for patients who feel nervous about dental treatment, especially those with mild anxiety or shorter procedures. Signs you might be a good candidate include:
- Trouble sitting still for long periods
- A sensitive gag reflex
- Discomfort around needles
- Difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia
Certain groups, such as pregnant women or those with sinus congestion, may not be eligible for nitrous oxide — our team will find a better solution to keep the experience pleasant if that’s the case.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Our team places a nasal mask that releases a mix of oxygen and nitrous oxide for you to breathe. Within a few moments, you should feel greatly relaxed, even euphoric. A qualified team member monitors your vitals and adjusts your sedation level as needed throughout treatment. When your appointment ends, the mask is removed and the effects wear off quickly, leaving you in full control of yourself in no time.
Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide
Even though the effects wear off quickly, we’ll ask you to stay in the office for a few minutes so we can assess your condition before sending you on your way. You won’t need someone to drive you to and from the office, though depending on your treatment, you may want to take it easy and avoid strenuous exercise. Notify us right away if you notice any issues.
Dental sedation isn’t right for everyone, but if you choose this service, you can expect benefits including:
- Reduced stress – Sedation can dramatically improve your experience in the dental office, so you can get the care you need without the anxiety that keeps you away.
- Decreased discomfort – If you have sensitive teeth, gums, or a strong gag reflex, sedation can make dental care much more comfortable.
- Saved time – Since complex treatments can often be completed in one appointment, you won’t need multiple visits to finish advanced dental work.
- Improved safety – For kids, patients with cognitive impairment, and medically compromised patients, sedation can make procedures safer and less taxing.
Cost of Dental Sedation
Nitrous oxide sedation typically costs less than $200 out of pocket for most patients and is often covered by dental insurance. Oral sedatives are often covered by medical insurance plans, with many patients only paying their prescription copay. We’re happy to help you maximize your available benefits, and we work with CareCredit to offer low and no-interest payment plans that fit the cost of sedation dentistry into almost any budget.
Driving After Sedation
If you choose oral conscious sedation over nitrous oxide, it’s important to have a friend or family member drive you to and from your appointment. The effects of oral conscious sedation are stronger and take longer to wear off than nitrous oxide, so having a trusted driver avoids putting yourself or others at risk.
Patients who choose oral conscious sedation should also rest for at least 24 hours before resuming normal activities, including driving and working, since residual effects can linger.
Request an AppointmentSedation Dentistry FAQs
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is generally safe for most patients, with nitrous oxide considered the safest option. Before administering sedation, our team carefully reviews your medical history and medications, and your vital signs are monitored throughout your appointment.
Will I remember anything with dental sedation?
You remain conscious during most sedation methods, but it’s common to remember very little of the procedure afterward — a benefit for patients coping with anxiety or past dental trauma.
What are the risks of sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is generally safe, though patients with obstructive sleep apnea or certain medications may face added risk. Mild side effects like nausea, headache, or grogginess can persist for a few hours. Always discuss concerns or medical conditions with our team beforehand.
How long does dental sedation last?
It depends on the type. Nitrous oxide effects typically fade within about five minutes. Oral conscious sedation can linger for the rest of the day, which is why driving or operating machinery should be avoided for 24 hours afterward.
Is sedation dentistry safe while pregnant?
Sedation requires extra care during pregnancy, since some medications can pass to the fetus. Nitrous oxide is generally considered the safest option, as it leaves the body within minutes, but it’s often best to delay elective dental procedures until after pregnancy when possible.
Does dental sedation make you tell secrets?
No — that’s a myth from TV and movies. You’re extremely unlikely to reveal anything or behave differently than you normally would while sedated.