Sedation Dentistry Makes Dental Appointments Easy
Are you one of the many individuals who avoid dental visits due to fear, anxiety, or discomfort? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans struggle with dental anxiety, making it challenging to maintain proper oral health. Fortunately, sedation dentistry provides a safe, effective solution to help patients relax and receive the care they need.
At Vero Dental Spa in Vero Beach, FL, Dr. Royal offers sedation dentistry, including IV sedation, to ensure every patient has a comfortable and stress-free experience. Contact one of the best dentists in Vero Beach by calling (772) 778-5550.
Why Choose Sedation Dentistry?
The primary objective of sedation dentistry is to induce a relaxed state in the patient while ensuring they’re conscious and able to respond to cues from the dentist. This calming effect happens through various medications that depress the central nervous system’s activity. The medication used for sedation can range from mild to moderate, depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of the procedure.
Many patients choose sedation dentistry in Vero Beach if they:
- Experience dental anxiety or fear.
- Have a low pain threshold.
- Require extensive dental work.
- Struggle with sensitive teeth or a strong gag reflex.
- Have difficulty sitting still for long periods.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry offers a spectrum of options to cater to different anxiety levels and patient preferences. Here are the most common types of sedation dentistry:
- Oral Sedation: Oral conscious sedation involves mild sedatives, such as oral medication. Patients remain awake and aware, experiencing reduced anxiety.
- Nitrous Oxide Sedation: Commonly referred to as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It induces relaxation and euphoria, and its effects wear off quickly after the procedure.
- IV Sedation: Administered intravenously, IV sedation allows for deep relaxation. Patients may not remember much of the procedure afterward. It’s often used for more extensive treatments. With deep sedation, patients are on the brink of consciousness and can be awakened when necessary. However, they’re unlikely to remember the details of the procedure.
- General Anesthesia: Reserved for complex procedures, general anesthesia renders the patient completely unconscious.
- Local Anesthetics: While not a form of sedation, local anesthetics have pain-relieving properties that are important in dentistry. This technique involves injecting numbing medication into the treatment area, ensuring you remain pain-free throughout the procedure. It’s commonly used alongside minimal or moderate sedation to provide a well-rounded comfort experience.
The Sedation Dentistry Process
Health Assessment
Before administering sedation, our Vero Beach dentist will thoroughly evaluate your medical history, current health status, and any medications you may be taking. This assessment helps determine the most suitable sedation method and dosage. If your sedation appointment is on a different day, our dentist will provide pre-appointment instructions.
Administration
Once you’ve chosen the appropriate sedation, you’ll either begin your treatment or return to the dental office for your appointment. Dr. Royal will then administer the chosen method of sedation. However, if you choose oral conscious sedation, you’ll likely receive it in a pill or liquid form to take at home before arriving.
Monitoring
Regardless of the sedation method, our dentist and team will continuously monitor your vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels, to ensure their safety throughout the procedure.
Procedure
Once you’re adequately sedated, our dentist can perform the necessary dental work. The patient remains comfortable and relaxed during this time.
Recovery
After the procedure is complete, you’ll be monitored in a recovery area until you’re alert and stable enough to be discharged. The effects of sedation will gradually wear off, but patients may feel drowsy for some time afterward.
Follow-Up
We’ll provide post-sedation instructions, and you’ll need someone to accompany you home as you may still feel the effects of sedation.
Why Choose Sedation Dentistry?
Dental sedation helps put patient’s minds at ease during many kinds of dental appointments. From routine dental checkups and cleanings to dental implant surgery or tooth extraction, sedation dentistry has many options that can reduce anxiety and other symptoms, such as:
- Dental Anxiety or Phobia: Dental sedation is particularly effective for individuals who experience intense fear or anxiety when visiting the dentist. It helps relax patients and makes them feel more at ease during procedures.
- Strong Gag Reflex: Some individuals have a hypersensitive gag reflex that can make dental procedures, especially those involving the back of the mouth, difficult. Sedation can help suppress the gag reflex, making procedures more manageable.
- Low Pain Tolerance: People with a low pain threshold might find dental procedures uncomfortable. Sedation can work in tandem with an anesthetic to enhance pain relief and minimize discomfort.
- Complex or Lengthy Procedures: Lengthy or complex dental procedures, such as oral surgeries, implant placements, or multiple extractions, can be physically and mentally taxing. Sedation ensures patients remain comfortable throughout.
- Inability to Sit Still: Some patients, including children or people with certain medical conditions, may struggle to sit still during a dental procedure. Sedation helps them stay calm and cooperative.
- Traumatic Dental Experiences: Individuals with a history of traumatic dental experiences might associate dental visits with distress. Sedation can help them overcome their fear.
- Sensitive Teeth or Gums: Patients with sensitive teeth or gums may experience discomfort during routine cleanings or procedures. Sedation can help manage their discomfort and make the experience more tolerable.
Are you ready to improve your dental health? Contact Vero Dental Spa at (772) 778-5550.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any side effects of sedation dentistry?
While side effects are rare, they can include grogginess, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting. Your dentist will discuss potential side effects with you before the procedure.
How long does the sedative effect last?
The duration of sedation varies depending on the type of sedative used. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, while oral or IV sedatives might leave you feeling groggy for a few hours.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, when administered by trained professionals, sedation dentistry is considered safe. Your dentist will carefully evaluate your medical history and monitor you throughout the procedure.
Anxious at the Dentist? Sedation Can Help
Sedation dentistry has transformed how people approach dental care, offering a stress-free and comfortable experience for individuals who previously dreaded dental visits. If you’re someone who avoids the dentist due to fear or anxiety, sedation dentistry might be the solution that allows you to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile without worry.
Contact our Vero Beach dental office today at (772) 778-5550 to schedule an appointment.
Patient Reviews
What People Are Saying
Dr. Royal explains every procedure from start to finish
“Dr. Royal is a very experienced dentist. I found him by accident and glad I did. He explains every procedure from start to finish. I had very little discomfort. His staff is so friendly. I am impressed at how they work together so in sync. Again, I am so pleased to be able to give this feedback and I urge others who are seeking a great dental office to consider Vero Beach Dental Spa!”
Dr. Royal is by far the gentlest dentist I ever had!
“I have had horrific experiences with dentists in the past but Dr. Royal and Vero Dental Spa are the best. When it comes to numbing shots, Dr. Royal is by far the most gentle I have ever had. I hate needles and he made it easy and virtually painless! I highly recommend Vero Dental Spa, you won't be disappointed!!!”
Vero Dental Spa is the absolute best!!!
“I’ve always been afraid to go to the dentist but now, since my first time going I’m completely relaxed and the staff is incredible! ”
The front desk was welcoming.
“Had a cleaning at Vero Dental Spa today. The front desk was welcoming. As usual in less than 5 minutes I was in the chair. Marlene the hygienist deserves a special mention; she was polite, professional, thorough and gentle. Check out was a breeze. This is a well run office.”
Dr. Royal and the entire staff are welcoming
“Dr. Royal and the entire staff are welcoming, professional, and accommodating. Throw in genuine care and good humor. It all adds up to very positive experiences from beginning to end. Highly recommended!”
Dr Royal was so pleasant and professional.
“The entire experience was wonderful. From reception to checkout with Kelly, Elizabeth and Lindsay… Everyone, including Dr Royal was so pleasant and professional. Truly refreshing !”
Dr. Royal is very knowledgeable and a perfectionist
“I've been going here now about 2 years now. Dr. Royal is very knowledgeable and a perfectionist. He's very good at what he does nothing really more to say about it he's also very funny. I don't mind going to the dentist anymore!”
Dr. Royal is by far the gentlest dentist I ever had!
“I have had horrific experiences with dentists in the past but Dr. Royal and Vero Dental Spa are the best. When it comes to numbing shots, Dr. Royal is by far the most gentle I have ever had. I hate needles and he made it easy and virtually painless! I highly recommend Vero Dental Spa, you won't be disappointed!!!”
I highly recommend Vero Dental
“This office and its amazing staff has helped me work through treatment I have been putting off for years - I highly recommend Vero Dental and would not choose any other office.”
Dr. Royal and the staff were amazing
“My first visit today, Dr. Royal and the staff were amazing friendly, professional and efficient!! I was welcomed warmly by everyone and felt like I have always been a patient there! Thank you to the team at Vero Dental Spa! See you soon!!”
Everyone one was so nice and helpful
“Made my first visit to the Vero Dental Spa today and I was extremely satisfied. I was made to feel at ease. Everyone one was so nice and helpful. Going back tomorrow for a cleaning”
Dr, Royal & all of his staff are truly amazing.
“From the moment you walk in the door you are put at ease, They take the time to explain everything to you, They go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable and happy with the work they are doing. They truly are all artists that take pride in the work they do & the smiles they create. They are all wonderfully talented and incredibly passionate about what they do. Do your teeth the best favor you can ever do for them & make an appointment to see Dr Royal & the most awesome staff ever at Vero Dental Spa. Give yourself a reason to smile.”
They work hard, and are a great office
“Great, Great, Great! The staff makes the office. Period. Kind staff, doctors are efficient and understanding. They work hard, and are a great office. The new electronic system helps keep things running even more smoothly too. Throughout the last ten years, they have come through shining.”
I have finally found my favorite dentist!
“I have never had such a wonderful experience at the dentist! The staff was so friendly and sweet! Dr. Royal has a great sense of humor and put me at ease even in a dental emergency! I have found my favorite dentist, finally!! Thank you to the staff at Vero Dental Spa, look forward to seeing you again soon!”
Get Your Complimentary
Consultation or 2nd Opinion
- Exam
- Full mouth X-ray
- Private Consultation with Doctor ($350 value)
3036 20th St,
Vero Beach, FL 32960- (772) 778-5550
Working hours
- Monday: 8am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
- Wednesday: 8am - 5pm
- Thursday: 8am - 5pm
- Friday: 8am - 1pm
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed