So, you’ve recently visited your dentist and discovered that you would need some serious dental treatments done. These treatments may include dental implants, wisdom tooth extraction, or some other form of dental work that may cause excessive pain or anxiety. Your dentist has recommended that you consider getting sedation dentistry for your procedure to ensure that you get through the process successfully.
But what exactly is sedation dentistry and how do I know I need it?
What Is Sedation Dentistry
When you visit the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups, you may not ever hear the term sedation dentistry, mainly if your teeth are in good condition. However, if you have to undergo a painful or prolonged dental procedure, a dentist may recommend sedation dentistry.
When a dentist recommends sedation dentistry, it is beneficial for you and them. This is because it allows them to quickly get dental procedures done that would not be so easy to perform with you fully alert. For many, sedation implies “sleeping.” However, after being given medications, patients are still alert but are in a very relaxed state.
They can sense that something is happening and even respond to their name. However, they probably won’t remember much of what takes place during the procedure once the sedation wears off.
What Sedation Dentistry Isn’t
Since you aren’t fully alert while under sedation, most patients assume that sedation dentistry is the same as sleep dentistry. Dentists rarely use anesthesia to make you wholly unconscious during dental procedures. There could be many hazards associated with such sedation. So, technically, sedation dentistry isn’t sleep dentistry. While you are in a sleep-like state, you are still aware.
Why You Need Sedation Dentistry
There are many reasons a dentist may recommend that you get sedation dentistry. Below are some of the common reasons your dentist may suggest sedation for your dental procedure.
You are terrified of the dental procedure.
Believe it or not, many people are afraid of the dentist. Unfortunately, this anxiety often keeps them from getting dental work completed. To relieve the fear of getting dental procedures done, dentists may suggest sedation so that you can get through the process without remembering much of the pain.
The procedure is a long one.
Having a lengthy procedure can be daunting. Sitting in the chair with your mouth open for hours can take its toll on you. And if you have a terrible gag reflex, this can also make the process difficult for dentists. A dentist will suggest sedation to make the procedure go as seamlessly as possible.
You are jittery.
The inability to sit still may be more common with children. Still, a few adults can’t manage to remain calm during the procedure. Some may have disabilities or other health issues that keep them from relaxing as they should. Therefore, it is a good idea to get sedation dentistry.
The procedure may cause pain.
One of the most significant reasons a dentist may recommend sedation is that the procedure may cause you immense pain. For instance, if they have to perform an extraction, the dentist may suggest sedation to swiftly complete the process while minimizing your memory of such pain.
What Types of Options Exist for Sedation Dentistry
You may be wondering what types of sedation are available for you. If you have to undergo a dental procedure, here are the most common forms of sedation that a dentist may recommend.
Laughing Gas
Nitrous oxide is the more scientific name for laughing gas. While it doesn’t make you laugh, it does help put you in a relaxed state so that the dentist can perform the procedure. The dentist will administer the laughing gas by placing an oxygen mask over your nose, allowing you to breathe it in. After getting sedation by laughing gas, its effects wear off quickly, which makes it easy for you to drive yourself home after the procedure.
Oral Medicine
Another option is for a dentist to administer a pill that usually takes about an hour to take effect before the procedure begins. The most common types of oral medicine that they may administer are Valium, Halcion, or Ambien.
Intravenous
One more common form of sedation is given to patients using an IV. This medicine works rather quickly because it’s injected right into the vein. However, this method and oral sedation usually require that the patient make arrangements to have someone wait for them during the procedure and drive them home because the patient will be too dizzy to drive.
If you have to get some major dental work done soon, it is a good idea to consider sedation dentistry. It can make your dental procedure go smoothly for both you and your dentist. While you won’t remember much of the process, nor will you sense the passage of time, one drawback is that you will have to rely on someone to get you to and from the dental office for some of these sedation methods. But, at least you don’t have to relive the pain of the procedure itself.
Dr. Sedki and his experienced staff, have extensive training in sedation dentistry. Our Commerce Twp. dental practice combines technology and comfort, providing safe and effective dental treatment. Our goal is to eliminate dental anxiety with a positive experience.
Whether you need cosmetic dentistry services, an involved dental treatment or have high dental anxiety about any dental procedure, you have options and are in good hands at Sedki Dentistry. Call for a Free Consultation today!