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Feel Comfortable at Blue Sky Family Dentistry in Redmond, Oregon

Do you experience anxiety or panic attacks at the thought of going to the dentist? Dental phobias are actually very common and affect approximately 40% of the population. If a dental phobia is keeping you away from the dentist's chair, we have options for you! Blue Sky Family Dentistry offers options for Redmond, Oregon patients, including nitrous oxide and oral sedation. 

The Blue Sky Family Dentistry team is known for being compassionate and caring. If you have a dental phobia, please let us know so we can best accommodate you and make your visits as comfortable as possible. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Sedation Dentistry in Redmond, Oregon

How Does Dental Sedation Work?

Sedation dentistry involves a variety of safe sedatives that help patients feel calm while undergoing dental procedures. Dental sedation can be used for everything from routine cleanings and checkups to longer procedures such as root canal therapy and restorations.

But, how does dental sedation work? Your central nervous system has a naturally occurring neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). The role of GABA is to slow down panic-inducing signals, essentially telling the central nervous system to calm down. When you take a sedative such as nitrous oxide, it binds to GABA-A receptors in the brain, essentially amplifying the anxiety-reducing effect.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation - Sedation Dentistry in Redmond, Oregon

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide sedation (sometimes referred to as "laughing gas") is the most common form of sedation used in general dentistry. Nitrous oxide is delivered through a small mask that rests on the nose. Nitrous oxide actually works in a few different ways. 

Nitrous oxide binds to GABA receptors to create a feeling of relaxation, but it also causes the brain to release norepinephrine, a chemical which helps reduce the brain's perception of pain. 

Nitrous oxide is a fast-acting sedative. Once the nasal hood is removed, you will quickly return to normal. Therefore, an escort is not necessary to take you to and from an appointment when only nitrous oxide is used.