For most patients, a trip to the dentist provokes anxiety, fear, or even terror. It could be the sound of instruments, a dislike of needles, or a bad experience in the past. Whatever it is, dental phobia exists—and more than you ever realised. That’s why Summit Village Family Dental in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, takes great pride in providing conscious sedation dentistry to ensure your visit to the dentist is stress-free, comfortable, and painless.
What Is Conscious Sedation Dentistry?
Conscious sedation dentistry is a secure and effective way to calm patients during dental treatments. Conscious sedation uses sedating drugs that enable you to be awake and alert but feeling very relaxed and worry-free. Unlike general anaesthesia, conscious sedation doesn’t make you completely unconscious, but you’re able to talk to your dentist if necessary while you feel as though you’re floating through the session.
At Summit Village Family Dental in Lee’s Summit, we use advanced sedation techniques to ensure every patient’s comfort.
Who Can Use Conscious Sedation?
Conscious sedation is not limited to patients who suffer from extreme dental anxiety. Anyone who:
- Experiences a high level of dental fear
- Has a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth
- Requires a complicated or lengthy procedure
- Has a strong gag reflex
- Struggles to remain still for an extended
- amounts of time
- Has a history of traumatic dental experience
Regardless of your reason, we want to assist you in getting the care you deserve without anxiety or discomfort.
Levels of Conscious Sedation We Provide
Summit Village Family Dental uses two of the most common and established forms of conscious sedation:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
This is the most widely used type of sedation for dental use. You inhale it through a small nose mask, and in a few minutes, you will relax and even experience euphoria. It rapidly leaves your system once treatment is completed, so that most patients can drive themselves home.
- Oral Sedation
This is done by taking a sedative pill that has been prescribed (typically a medication such as Halcion) an hour before your appointment. You will be awake, but you’ll feel very sleepy and relaxed. Most of the time, you will not recall much about the treatment, which is perfect for patients who have extreme dental phobias. Since the effects are longer-lasting, you will require someone to transport you home following your appointment.
Our staff of dentists will assist you in deciding which procedure is most suitable for your individual needs and comfort.
Is Conscious Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, definitely. The FDA approves conscious sedation, and it is very safe when used by experienced dental health professionals. At Summit Village Family Dental, we thoroughly examine your medical history, medications, and health conditions before prescribing sedation. We also monitor your oxygen level, heart rate, and blood pressure constantly during your treatment to guarantee your safety and comfort.
What to Expect Before, During, and After
Before your appointment:
We will give you specific directions depending on the level of sedation that you will have.
You might need to fast or drink lightly for a couple of hours before your treatment.
If oral sedation is used, you will need to have someone else drive you to and from our office.
During the procedure:
You will be in a comfortable, reclining position.
After the sedative has taken effect, the dentist will start the procedure while you are relaxed and at ease.
You should still be able to react to simple commands, but you will probably feel removed from what you are doing.
After your appointment:
Recovery is generally rapid, particularly with nitrous oxide.
If you received oral sedation, you might be groggy for a few hours.
Rest best and do not drive or operate machinery until the sedation has completely worn off.
Why Choose Summit Village Family Dental in Lee’s Summit?
Our Missouri-based practice is famous for caring, personalised dentistry. We know how much it matters to feel comfortable and treated with respect when you come to see us. That’s why we listen carefully to your concerns, explain every step in your treatment, and provide state-of-the-art options for sedation so that your experience is good from beginning to end.
Whether you’re here for a simple cleaning or a comprehensive restoration, our experienced staff is on hand to assist you in receiving care in a stress-free and calming atmosphere.
If fear or anxiety has been taking you away from visiting the dentist, conscious sedation can help ease your worries. Summit Village Family Dental is proud to serve families in Lee’s Summit, MO, with modern dentistry and a gentle touch.
Call us today to discover more about our conscious sedation dentistry or to schedule an appointment. Your comfort matters most—and we’re here to assist you in smiling once more without fear.
