Going to the dentist is a necessity to maintain oral health; but for many this is a burden too difficult to overcome. Sedation dentistry is available to help those suffering with severe anxiety, mental, or physical limitations.
How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?
There are several types of sedation … for surgical uses like complex extractions, IV sedation is used most often by an oral surgeon. But for the extremely anxious or patients with limitations, oral sedation or nitrous oxide may be available from your family dentist.
Nitrous oxide is a gas mixed with oxygen administered via a nasal mask. The patient is placed in a state of euphoria in a matter of minutes. This type of sedation is safe for patients of all ages, and is available for all types of procedures. Once nitrous oxide is terminated, the patient is quickly restored to normal.
Oral sedation works much differently. The patient will take a sedative at home about one hour prior to their dental appointment. Transportation both to and from the dentist are required when oral sedation is used.
Upon arrival, the patient is given additional sedatives and allowed some time for them to take effect. During this time, the patient is being monitored both visually as well as their vital signs.
The sedatives relax the patient so the dentist can perform procedures as simple as teeth cleaning to more extensive work such as decay repair, periodontal cleanings, simple extractions, bonding, crown and bridge placement, and cosmetic enhancements.
This type of sedation is not just for nervous individuals … patients with physical limitations that prevent them from sitting or reclining can enjoy great dental health as well as those suffering from mental issues that prevent them from getting needed dentistry performed.
Since the patient will feel groggy for several hours following treatment, they must be transported home. Patients are advised to rest for the remainder of the day, and most people can resume their normal activities the next day.
How Do I Know If Sedation Is An Option For Me?
To learn more about sedation dentistry and how it can help you relax and take the edge off during your dental visits, contact our team at Fresh Dental today and schedule a consultation.
