Sedation Dentist Fort Smith
Providing a Way to Receive Necessary Oral Healthcare
Each year, countless children and adults forgo regular dental treatment because of fear, anxiety, and other similar issues. Dr. Harper and Dr. Cooper want to eliminate these barriers and instead, create a pathway that makes dental visits possible and even enjoyable. With sedation dentistry in Fort Smith, we can generate a more calming and comfortable environment for everyone. Contact our office to find out how you can take advantage of our available sedation options.
Why Choose Harper Dental for Sedation Dentistry?
Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation
Do you feel anxious leading up to your dental visits? If so, you should ask us about dental nitrous oxide in Fort Smith! Often called “laughing gas,” this calming solution can alleviate worry, stress, and fear, allowing you to relax comfortably during your time in the treatment chair. To learn who is typically a good candidate, how it works, and what the recovery period looks like, get in touch with us or read on!
Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is typically recommended for patients who:
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Experience dental anxiety
- Have a fear of needles
- Struggle with head/neck/jaw pain
- Need extensive dental care
If one or more of the above apply to you, let us know! From there, we can review your medical history and any medications you’re taking to confirm whether or not you’re a candidate.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Nitrous oxide doesn’t require pills or needles. Instead, the colorless, odorless gas is administered through a nasal mask. Once you settle into the treatment chair, we will position it in place and ask you to breathe slowly through your nose. Almost instantly, the effects will eliminate your anxiety and dull your senses so that you feel no discomfort or uncertainty throughout your visit. We will closely monitor you throughout your appointment and remove the mask when treatment is complete.
Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide
Not only do the effects of nitrous oxide set in quickly, but they dissipate quickly, too! As a result, you don’t need to take the rest of the day off work or arrange for someone to drive you home. All we ask is that you abide by any aftercare instructions that we provide pertaining to the care that you received. For instance, if we performed a root canal, then you should rinse with warm saltwater periodically and take OTC pain medication as directed.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation is considered slightly more powerful than nitrous oxide and is commonly recommended if you suffer moderate to severe dental anxiety. It’s also highly beneficial if you need to have more than a single service performed during your appointment. By taking a single pill, you will become deeply relaxed; you may even be unable to remember much from your appointment.