Sedation Dentistry
If you’ve been avoiding a trip to Coast Dental University in Tampa, FL due to anxiety, don’t worry, we understand. Many people in Tampa have dental fears, often stemming from previous negative experiences. However, we want to assure you that technology and techniques have come a long way in sedation dentistry Tampa, making your visit more comfortable and stress-free than ever before. Our friendly team specializes in creating a welcoming and safe environment for all our patients. We have several strategies to help alleviate anxiety and many of our offices offer sedation dentistry in Tampa to enhance relaxation.
Sedation dentistry in Tampa is incredibly effective, often referred to as stress-free dentistry or sleep dentistry, even though you are not actually asleep during the procedure.
Here are a few ways we can help relieve your dental anxiety:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Nitrous oxide, commonly known as
laughing gas
, has been used in medicine for over a century. When combined with a local anesthetic, it provides pain and anxiety relief while inducing a sense of relaxation and well-being. Nitrous oxide is administered through a comfortable mask that fits over your nose. The gas is mixed with oxygen and carefully regulated to ensure your safety. Within minutes, you may experience a floating sensation or tingling in your hands and feet, indicating that the sedation is working. You remain awake and aware of your surroundings throughout the procedure, and all bodily functions remain normal. After the procedure, the effects wear off quickly, allowing you to resume normal activities, including driving. - Oral Sedation: For those who prefer a stronger form of sedation but fear needles, oral sedation is an excellent option. Your dentist in Tampa will prescribe a pill for you to either swallow or dissolve under your tongue. This medication induces a state of relaxation and peace, and it may also cause temporary amnesia, meaning you’ll have little or no memory of the dental appointment. If you choose oral sedation, it’s important to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment, as the effects can last for a few hours, necessitating rest afterward.
- Intravenous Sedation: If you have an extreme fear of the dentist or require extensive dental work in Tampa, your dentist may recommend intravenous conscious sedation. This method involves delivering the sedative directly into your bloodstream via an IV line in your hand or arm, making it more potent than oral sedation. Only dentists with special training, such as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, can administer this form of sedation. Although you will not be asleep, you will feel incredibly relaxed and comfortable, barely noticing the passing of time. It’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home and rest for the remainder of the day, as the effects can last for a few hours.
Sedation dentistry in Tampa not only reduces anxiety but also eliminates the typical sights, sounds, and scents of the dental office. Additionally, it can create temporary amnesia, ensuring you do not remember the procedure. Even if you have been avoiding dental work for years and require extensive treatment, our sedation dentistry techniques can help overcome your anxiety. Furthermore, sedation dentistry often allows us to accomplish more in one visit, reducing the number of appointments you’ll need. Don’t let dental phobia hinder your oral health. Call us today at (813) 971-8141 to learn how we can help you with sedation dentistry in Tampa.
