Dental sedation is beneficial to patients who struggle to make it through their appointments. Many dentists offer it so patients are able to receive the care they need without feeling uncomfortable. There are several things that you should know before undergoing a treatment using dental sedation. Read on to learn about 3 frequently asked questions about sedation dentistry as well as their answers.
Question #1: What Is Dental Sedation?
As previously mentioned, dental sedation offers patients an opportunity to make it through their appointments in comfort. You will be administered a sedative that will make you feel calm and help put your mind at ease. Sedation can be beneficial for several different kinds of people, so be sure to speak with your dentist if you think it may help you.
Question #2: Who Can Sedation Dentistry Benefit?
Sedation dentistry can be helpful to many different types of patients, including those who:
- Can’t comfortably recline in the treatment chair for long periods
- Have trouble getting numb using local anesthesia
- Are undergoing long or extensive treatments
- Experience dental fear or anxiety
- Have sensitive gums or teeth
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Can’t deal with pain well
- Have certain disabilities
- Are scared of needles
Question #3: What Are the Types of Sedation Dentistry?
There are a few different types of dental sedation. Each one offers its own unique set of benefits. The kinds of sedation include:
- Nitrous oxide – Nicknamed laughing gas, nitrous oxide is the least risky type of sedation. This fast-acting gas is administered through a mask that’s placed over the patient’s nose. Nitrous oxide is safe for both adults and children and wears off quickly. This means that patients can drive to and from their appointment themselves.
- Oral conscious sedation – For this type of sedation, you will be given a prescription pill and directions on when to take it. Oral conscious sedation is helpful for people with moderate levels of dental anxiety or fear. The effects last at least a few hours, so you will need a ride to and from your appointment.
- IV Sedation – This is a deeper form of sedative and allows patients to relax deeply. They will enter a state of near sleep and have a dramatically decreased pain response. Your dentist can adjust the sedative throughout the procedure if need be. It’s administered into the bloodstream through an IV. After the procedure, you will need someone to drive you home. Plan to rest for at least 12 hours after treatment.
If the above information makes you think that dental sedation may be right for you, make sure to speak with your dentist. With the answers to these frequently asked questions about sedation dentistry, you should be able to make the right decision to receive the treatment you need stress-free!
About the Author
Exceptional Dentistry & Sedation Center is located in Gainesville and treats their Florida patients from the comfort of their inviting dental office. Dr. Art Mowery, Dr. Kim Mowery, and Dr. Luis Rodriguez are the talented dentists who use their skills to help you maintain a healthy beam. If you need a little extra help making it through your appointments, they can answer frequently asked questions about sedation dentistry so you have all the information you need about the process. Visit Exceptional Dentistry & Sedation Center’s website or call them at (352) 332-6725 to make an appointment or for more information.
