Your dentist can perform sedation dentistry if you have dental anxiety or are undergoing long-term treatment. Sedation dentistry can be a safe option for people with few underlying health conditions. Here’s more information about sedation dentistry:
Understanding Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry gives you a sense of calmness and relaxation during dental procedures. The sedation keeps you awake but less responsive to your surroundings. Your dental specialist administers sedation dentistry during the procedure to create short-term amnesia and make you less sensitive to pain. Sedation dentistry is ideal for people of all ages and those with a lot of dental work to be done. Your dentist may recommend sedation if you are fearful of dental treatments or have an overly sensitive gag reflex. People with a fear of needles, high teeth sensitivity, inability to control physical movements, and those with special behavior or physical needs could benefit from sedation during treatment.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
A dental specialist offers different types of sedation, like nitrous oxide or inhaled sedation. Inhaled sedation involves wearing a mask over the mouth and nose to breathe in the nitrous oxide or laughing gas. When the gas enters the body, it makes you feel more happy and relaxed. After the procedure, the doctor administers oxygen to flush the gas from your system. The gas diminishes quickly, allowing you to return to normal activities after the dental procedure.
Sedation may also include an oral prescription to keep you calm during the dental procedure. The dental specialist prescribes oral sedation medication that should be taken a few minutes before the procedure. Oral sedation takes a few hours to diminish after the treatment before you can return to activities such as driving and working. If your case requires oral surgery or a large amount of dental work, the dental specialist may recommend intravenous sedation. Intravenous sedation dispenses anesthesia by the use of a needle into the bloodstream.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Sedation dentistry is safe and can be well-tolerated by many individuals, though it may have lasting effects on some. People with health conditions such as heart disease, kidney conditions, and diabetes are at risk of complications and should consult with their dentist before undergoing sedation. The dental practitioner will conduct a medical history assessment to determine the right sedation and whether you take other medications that could interfere with it. Your dental provider will administer the appropriate sedation depending on your age, weight, and treatment type. During and after the procedure, the dental practitioner monitors your signs to allow them to reverse the sedation effects if the need arises. The dental expert may use oxygen and artificial ventilation during the reversal process.
Consult a Reputable Dentist
A reputable dental practitioner will provide post-care guidelines to help you recover from the sedation and procedure. Look for a dental provider who is transparent about their treatment methods and anesthesia types. This helps you make informed decisions about your dental care. If you are anxious about a dental procedure, consult a competent dental expert today to learn more about sedation dentistry.