Sedation Dentistry Specialist
Kathryn Jodry, DDS
Cosmetic Dentist & General Dentist located in Richardson, TX
In many cases, the mere thought of an upcoming dental procedure can elicit fear or anxiety. Fortunately, Kathryn Jodry, DDS, is an accredited sedation provider and offers sedation dentistry to minimize discomfort and ease patients through necessary dental work. If you're curious and would like to know more about how sedation dentistry works, call the office or use the online booking tool today.
Sedation Dentistry Q&A
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to the common practice of using sedatives to calm nerves and quell dental anxiety for nervous patients during certain procedures. Patients may opt for sedation dentistry for both small and more involved dental work.
Sedation dentistry can be used for a variety of procedures, including:
- Root canals
- Tooth extractions
- Emergency dentistry procedures
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Orthodontics
The use of sedation dentistry depends largely on your individual preferences and the recommendations of Dr. Jodry. It can be particularly helpful to ease the worries of children who are either afraid of the dentist or are new to the experience of having dental work done.
How does sedation dentistry work?
Sedation dentistry comes in several different forms, with each providing different benefits, catering to the varied preferences of patients. These forms of sedation include:
Local sedation
Local sedation refers to a topical method used to numb or relax the treatment area. This can help tremendously with more involved dental work.
Enteral sedation
In some cases, your dentist may administer oral sedative drugs, or pills, to help reduce your anxiety or fear surrounding a dental procedure. You typically take an enteral sedative about one hour before dental work.
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide, which is also known as "laughing gas," helps you relax while remaining awake. Your dentist places a mask over your nose. The mask controls how much of the sedative you receive.
If the type of sedative you'll be using for an upcoming procedure is going to prevent you from driving yourself home, the staff at Kathryn Jodry, DDS, will make sure the specifics of your visit are planned well ahead of time.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, when the skilled team at Kathryn Jodry, DDS, performs sedation dentistry, it's perfectly safe. Prior to administering any sedative, your dentist discusses the specifics of the upcoming procedure, what role the sedative will play, and its expected effects.
If you have any reservations at all about sedation dentistry, don't be afraid to raise your concerns with your dentist. You'll have plenty of time to ask any questions you might have and address any concerns going in.
To learn more about how sedation dentistry is used at Kathryn Jodry, DDS, call the office or use the online booking tool to schedule your next appointment.