What Is Sedation Dentistry?

It is not uncommon for many people to purposefully avoid going to the dentist. Many times this avoidance is due to being fearful of a dental procedure. Sedation dentistry can be used as a way to lessen stress. At Gardens Family Dentistry we offer many dental sedation options. Our goal is to provide choices to make your visit a positive experience.

Sedation dentistry can be the answer to lowering the anxiety and stress that you feel about visiting your dentist. From the standard procedure of cleaning your teeth to the more intense process of treating a cavity, dental sedation may just be your answer. Our team of professionals at Gardens Family Dentistry is happy to explain the process.

Visiting the dentist should never be an experience that causes any type of fear. But if you are someone who feels anxious about having dental work done, there are options. There are various types of sedation that can help you relax during your visit. 

What Types Of Sedation Dentistry Are Available?

Annual visits to your dentist are an important part of maintaining your health. If that visit causes you to have anxiety, sedation dentistry could be key. Dental sedation is provided to relieve your stress while in the dentist’s chair. 

There are various levels of sedation:

• Minimal sedation: allows you to be awake, but feeling relaxed
• Moderate sedation (also known as “conscious sedation”): places you in a state of semi-consciousness where you aren’t able to recall most of the dental procedure
• Deep sedation: allows you to remain conscious enough that you can be woken up
• General anesthesia: places you in a state where you are completely unconscious

There are also options for the types of sedation a dentist uses. These options vary with each dental practice and are offered according to the level of training of the dentist.

The types of sedation that are offered include:

Inhaled Sedation

Nitrous oxide combined with oxygen is used during inhaled sedation – commonly as “laughing gas.” A mask is placed over your nose and as you inhale the gas you become relaxed. The overall recovery time is fast. 

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation usually takes place in pill form and is typically a type of Valium. As oral sedation is administered you become drowsy or may even allow you to fall asleep. It doesn’t take a lot to wake you up when the procedure is over.

Intravenous Medication

Intravenous sedation (also known as IV sedation) takes place by placing a needle into a vein and receiving your medication through that needle. IV sedation dentistry allows the dentist to control the amount of medication being given to you. Sedation takes place quickly with this method.

General Anesthesia

The deepest form of sedation is general anesthesia. This process allows you to be completely unconscious during the dental procedure. You will awaken either when the medication wears off or when you are given a reversal medication.

What Occurs During Sedation Dentistry?

What Should I Expect?

While you are under dental sedation you will be closely monitored. Vitals that are watched closely include:

• Pulse
• Breathing
• Blood pressure

The dentist will perform the procedure during the time you are sedated. If you are under IV sedation you may also receive other medications such as steroids, pain medications, or anti-inflammatories intravenously.

How Should I Prepare?

Preparation for your dental sedation will include strict instructions from your dentist. You may be told to follow these guidelines:

• Wear loose, comfortable clothes to the appointment
• Stop eating and/or drinking 6-8 hours before your procedure
• Discontinue taking certain medications prior to sedation
• Arrange for someone to drive you to and from your procedure

Benefits Of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is a great option for you if you feel anxious at the thought of having any sort of dental work. It can benefit you if your level of anxiety prevents you from visiting a dentist. The goal is to create a better mindset for future visits.

Who Is A Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?

Those who suffer from these conditions may benefit from dental sedation:

• Low pain threshold
• Bad gag reflex
• Sensitive teeth

Children are also potential candidates for sedation dentistry. The practice can create a more controlled, safer, and relaxing experience for them. The common method is inhaled sedation.

Our experienced staff at Gardens Family Dentistry welcome your questions about sedation dentistry. Our location in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida offers options that promote a relaxing visit. Our goal is to build a stress-free relationship with you. Your dental health is our business ~ contact us today!

References

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/anesthesia/is-iv-sedation-dentistry-right-for-you