Sedation Dentistry Des Moines, IA
Discover the benefits of sedation for dentistry.
Our dedicated team strives to ensure every patient is comfortable and relaxed from the moment they arrive at our Des Moines dental practice. We understand that some patients experience severe dental anxiety or phobia and need extra help relaxing during their dental visits. For anxious patients, those who have sensitive teeth or gums, or those in need of extensive or multiple treatments, we offer multiple options for sedation dentistry.
We invite patients from Des Monies and the surrounding communities to contact Dr. Alex Hashemi-Toroghi and his knowledgeable team to find out more about dental sedation and to determine which option is right for by scheduling an appointment today.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a safe and effective sedation option used in dentistry to help patients relax during treatments. Administered through a small mask placed over the nose, nitrous oxide induces a mild sense of euphoria and calm without causing drowsiness, allowing patients to remain fully awake and responsive. It is ideal for individuals who experience mild anxiety or discomfort during dental procedures. The effects wear off quickly once the procedure is complete, allowing patients to resume their normal activities immediately. Nitrous oxide is a trusted and well-tolerated option, ensuring a stress-free dental experience for many patients.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Patients who are in need of a stronger, longer-lasting sedative, those who experience severe dental anxiety that makes leaving home for the dentist a challenge, and those in need of multiple treatments in a single visit, may want to consider oral conscious sedation. Patients who choose this sedation method should plan to have a friend or family member drive them to and from our practice. At a predetermined time prior to leaving home, patients take a sedative pill that begins to take effect within half an hour. The effects of oral conscious sedation can last as much as 24 hours after the initial dosage, so patients should plan rest and recovery time accordingly.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation
The strongest form of sedative we offer, intravenous (IV) sedation offers the best qualities of both of our other options. Like nitrous oxide, the sedative is administered under the supervision of our dentist and team for optimal safety, the effects are fast acting, and the dosage can be adjusted easily to ensure optimal comfort throughout treatment. IV sedation offers significantly more sedative effect than nitrous oxide and is often stronger than oral conscious sedation. Patients typically remain awake during treatment, but they may dose. Like oral conscious sedation, IV sedation causes patients to be deeply relaxed for an extended period of time. Patients should plan to have a trusted friend or family member drive them to and from their appointment.
