Sedation Dentistry in Loris, SC

Many people experience anxiety when visiting the dentist, a fear known as dental phobia. Unfortunately, this fear often prevents individuals from seeking regular dental care, which can compromise both oral health and overall well-being. In most cases, sedation dentistry provides a solution, allowing patients to undergo dental treatment with their anxiety completely relieved through medication.

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Reasons for Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is particularly helpful for patients who:

  • Experience dental phobia
  • Gag easily
  • Have difficulty sitting still
  • Have sensitive teeth or gums
  • Require extensive dental work
  • Have a low pain threshold

The level of sedation used varies depending on the patient’s needs and the type of dental procedure being performed.

Patient Testimonial

“I was on vacation in Myrtle Beach and I broke a tooth which caused me severe pain and discomfort. I called Carolina Dentistry and they were able to schedule my appointment the same day. They were incredibly welcoming and very patient with me as I have a fear of the dentist. I cannot begin to tell you how much they helped me.” – Anonymous

Levels of Sedation

Sedation dentistry helps patients feel relaxed during dental treatment. In most cases, sedation does not require full anesthesia; patients remain partially awake while a local anesthetic is used to manage pain. Sedation may be administered before the anesthetic to reduce anxiety about injections.

Inhaled Minimal Sedation

Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask over the nose. It puts the patient in a relaxed state, but the effects wear off quickly. Adults treated with nitrous oxide can drive home after the procedure, and it is also safe for children who are anxious or uncooperative. Patients under minimal sedation may be groggy and slur their speech but can be easily awakened.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is the most common form of sedation dentistry. Administered in pill form, it ranges from minimal to moderate sedation:

  • Minimal sedation: A Halcion tablet is given, making the patient drowsy but still awake. Full effect occurs within about an hour.
  • Moderate sedation: A higher dose allows most patients to remain fully asleep, but they can still be awakened with minimal effort. Children may receive a carefully adjusted dose based on age and weight.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients who experience anxiety or discomfort at the dentist. Benefits include:

  • Feeling relaxed and comfortable during treatment
  • Perception of shorter procedure time
  • Ability for dentists to perform extensive work in fewer visits

Schedule a Sedation Dentistry Appointment

To learn more about sedation dentistry or other dental services, call (843) 756-2273 to schedule a consultation in Loris, SC. Our skilled dentists and professional team proudly serve patients in Loris, Tabor City, Myrtle Beach, Marion, Conway, and surrounding areas in South Carolina.