Professional Sedation Dentistry Red Deer, Alberta

Do you suffer from Dental Anxiety? We provide sedation at our Red Deer Dental Clinic.

We always offer a detailed explanation of every step of any procedure and what it will accomplish for you. This often helps reduce anxiety, but it may not provide a full sense of comfort. That's why we provide sedation.

If you suffer from dental anxiety and it's preventing you from getting regular check-ups or a needed procedure, please discuss it freely with one of our dentists. We know how to help.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Sedation

Our method of sedation is nitrous oxide, which is also commonly called "laughing gas". We use it to reduce anxiety and sensation during dental procedures.

For healthy patients, it's a safe sedative agent mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that is placed over your nose.

It's invisible, odourless, and tasteless.

What to Expect from Sedation Dentistry

We apply a breathing mask over your mouth that delivers oxygen. The amount of sedation needed is different for everyone, so we gradually increase the dose until you feel relaxed.

You will not be left alone at any time.

Common Experience and Benefits of Laughing Gas

• a tingling feeling in the arms and legs
• a level of physical well-being paired with a feeling of "floating" or euphoria
• a lower level of awareness and sensation during dental procedures (Many patients often don't even feel the freezing going in!)
• no "hangover" effect

Should I Consider Sedation?

We consider your general health, history of allergies and your anxiety level to determine the best approach. Sedation dentistry is most appropriate for people who are afraid to go to the dentist and may be suitable for the patients who:

• have phobias related to dental procedures
• suffer from sensitive oral nerves
• have a low pain threshold
• have a bad gag reflex
• have a small mouth which becomes sore during dental work
• resist local anaesthetic

What are the Signs of Dental Anxiety?

You feel a sensation of discomfort and uncertainty which begins when it is time for your appointment and likely even in the days or weeks leading up to your appointment.

Some of the signs of anxiety are:

• sweating
• racing heartbeat
• low blood pressure
• risible distress or panic attack
• a lightheaded feeling
• shortness of breath
• nightmares or insomnia leading up to appointment
• using humour or aggression to cope

Methods for Reducing Anxiety Before and During Your Appointment

If you're apprehensive about an upcoming dental visit, try these ways to help reduce your anxiety:

• Share your fears – share your fears and concerns with your dentist. Trust us, we've heard it all and we will help you to work through it.
• Focus on slow, normal deep breaths during the procedure.
• Listen to some music. (bring headphones to relax while you wait and during treatment).
• Use hand signals to communicate with your dentist - we'll walk you through it!
• Choose a low-stress appointment time - choose a day and time that works best for you; often, first thing in the morning is ideal so that you don't think about it all day.