Sedation Dentistry in Honolulu, HI

Data from previous scientific studies demonstrates that over 36 percent of the population suffers from dental anxiety and 12 percent suffer from extreme dental fear. While dental fear and anxiety is understandable, it often stops patients from getting the necessary treatment they need. 

Failing to see a dentist on a regular basis increases your chances for oral diseases and endangers your overall health. Fortunately, at Advanced Restorative Dentistry, sedation dentistry is available to help ease your fears and make your dental procedure more comfortable. 

To learn more about how Dr. Nishime can help you manage your stress, call Advanced Restorative Dentistry by dialing (808) 732-0291, or book an appointment by clicking the button below.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the practice of safely using medication to keep you relaxed and calm during a dental procedure. The primary purpose of sedation is to eliminate the fears that may stop you from getting the oral healthcare you need. 

Under sedation, dental procedures become less stressful and it becomes easier for Dr. Nishime to operate for extended periods of time. In some cases, patients who undergo sedation don’t even remember the procedure. 

Your Sedation Dentistry Options

Dr. Nishime offers three different levels of sedation dentistry:

Nitrous Oxide Inhalation Sedation (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is one of the most common kinds of dental sedation available. Nitrous oxide takes the form of a colorless, non-flammable gas that you inhale before the procedure. 

Common effects of nitrous oxide inhalation include a feeling of dissociation alongside an anesthetizing effect that eliminates pain. Nitrous oxide is also known to create feelings of giddiness and euphoria, hence the nickname. 

Nitrous oxide may be a good sedation option for you if: 

  • You’re scared of needles
  • You’re resistant to oral and IV sedation
  • You want fast acting sedation that wears off quickly

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation comes in the form of a pill that you’ll ingest one hour before your surgery. You may have an anesthetic prescribed that you’ll take alongside your sedative, or have your anesthetic applied at Dr. Nishime’s office. Once an hour has passed, you’ll be ready for surgery. 

Oral sedation doesn’t put you under, but it may make you drowsy and even cause you to fall asleep. While oral sedation is simple and generally safe, not everyone is likely to respond to it the same. 

You may be a good candidate for oral sedation if:

  • You’re resistant to nitrous oxide and IV sedation
  • You want to be sedated but not fully unconscious
  • You’re scared of needles
  • You don’t like laughing gas
  • You have a ride home 

Intravenous Sedation (IV)

Intravenous or IV sedation, involves having the prescribed substance injected directly into your veins at the dentist’s office. Dr. Nishime uses Midazolam for this method, a drug which induces drowsiness and makes you less aware of your surroundings. 

Midazolam won’t fully put you to sleep, and your reflexes will remain intact, but it will make you unlikely to remember the procedure once it’s done. Intravenous sedation is not anesthesia, so we’ll administer a local anesthetic as required.

You may be a good candidate for intravenous sedation if:

  • You’re resistant to oral and nitrous oxide sedation
  • You have a ride home
  • You dislike pills and laughing gas
  • You want to stay conscious during your procedure

General Anesthesia

Sometimes, these forms of sedation are not enough. When the deepest level of sedation is required, we use the services of an MD anesthesiologist to provide general anesthesia. General anesthesia involves using a combination of inhaled and injected controlled substances to eliminate your sense of awareness during your procedure. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Sedation Dentistry Erases Dental Fears and Aids Oral Health

It’s common and understandable for you to experience fear about visiting the dentist. Rest assured, Dr. Nishime and his team want you to feel comfortable and safe during your visit and sedation dentistry options can help erase any anxiety you may be feeling. 

Now is the time to stop letting fear endanger your oral and overall health. To learn more about the benefits of sedation dentistry, or to schedule an appointment at our Honolulu office, call us at (808) 732-0291 or click the button below to schedule an appointment. 

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