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Sedation Dentistry in Phoenix and Chandler, AZ

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Rush Family Dental provides sedation dentistry services in Phoenix and Chandler, AZ. Please contact us if you need more information on our services or would like to schedule an appointment.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves administering safe medications to help patients relax during their procedures. Dentists provide varying levels of sedation depending on the length of the procedure and the patient's comfort level.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Enables Anxious Patients to Receive Care

Patients who feel apprehensive about dental work can confidently make appointments, knowing they will feel calm in the office. If worried patients receive sedation, they will be more likely to keep up with their recommended dental care and enjoy better oral health.

Makes Procedures Safer

Patients remain still and calm when under sedation, making the procedure safer.

Makes Appointments More Efficient

Dentists can accomplish more in one appointment with a sedated patient.

Helps With Lengthy Appointments

Patients who do not mind dental work may opt for sedation if they have a long procedure planned. They will feel more relaxed during the appointment, leading to better patient comfort afterward.

Sedation Options We Offer

Nitrous Oxide

The dentist places a small mask over the patient's nose, and the patient inhales the medication as a colorless, odorless gas. This well-studied medication provides a feeling of calm and relaxation. In some patients, it may produce a feeling of euphoria. It may also reduce discomfort. However, the patient will stay fully alert and conscious.

When the procedure is over, the dentist turns down the nitrous oxide gas and replaces it with oxygen. The oxygen flushes the nitrous oxide out of the patient's system.

The patient will have fully returned to normal just minutes after completing the procedure. They will be able to drive and return to normal activities immediately.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is another excellent option for patients who need more sedation than nitrous oxide can provide. The dentist prescribes an anti-anxiety medication to take about an hour before the appointment. The patient will need a responsible adult driver to and from the appointment.

The patient may feel groggy during the appointment and may fall asleep. They may have little memory of the procedure afterward. After the appointment, the patient will need to rest quietly at home for the remainder of the day and avoid driving or using machinery for 24 hours.

Are You A Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Most patients, including children, are good candidates for sedation dentistry. However, if you have any of these medical conditions, talk to us before your appointment. You may need clearance from a physician to receive sedation.

  • Sleep Apnea
  • Pregnancy
  • Heart Disease
  • COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) or Chronic Bronchitis
  • Medication Allergies
  • Nasal Congestion
Why Choose Rush Family Dental?

Our friendly, welcoming office combines high-tech treatments with a warm and comfortable atmosphere. We dedicate ourselves to making each patient feel valued. We operate with high standards for patient care and integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Can you eat before sedation dentistry?
With nitrous oxide, you can eat a light meal before your appointment. Nausea is an uncommon side effect of nitrous oxide. With oral sedation, you must not eat for at least 12 hours before your appointment to reduce the risk of complications.
Can children receive sedation dentistry treatment?
Children with dental anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, or special needs usually respond well to sedation. Nitrous oxide treatment is considered safe for children, and dentists may use conscious oral sedation in special circumstances.
How long does it take oral sedation to wear off?
You may feel back to normal within a few hours, but you must avoid driving for 24 hours as the drug leaves your system.
Does nitrous oxide have any side effects?
When used correctly, nitrous oxide has very few side effects. Nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and headaches occasionally happen. Most patients will feel well and ready to resume their daily activities after breathing oxygen for five minutes.
Can I receive sedation treatment if I have a strong gag reflex?
A strong gag reflex is an excellent reason to use nitrous oxide. Most patients with strong gag reflexes respond well to dental sedation.

Call Rush Family Dental

If you feel apprehensive about visiting the dentist, sedation dentistry may be able to help you take control of your oral health. Please contact us at our Phoenix or Chandler locations to ask questions or schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate dentists.

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.

Book An Appointment

Rush Family Dental-Ahwatukee

4350 E. Ray Road, Building 3, Suite 112
Phoenix, AZ 85044

Rush Family Dental-Chandler

4909 S. Alma School Rd
Chandler, AZ 85248