Sedation is widely used in the dental world to help calm fears and put patients at ease as they go through their dental treatment.
Various types of sedation are offered by most dentists — especially when the situation requires it. But, when is it used? Can you ask your dentist for sedation?
When Is Sedation Used?
Patients who are anxious or nervous when it comes to visiting the dentist tend to put things off until they are absolutely necessary. The result? More invasive and complex procedures. This can lead to even more anxiety about visiting the dentist.
Thankfully, if a patient understands the power of sedation and how it can benefit them during their treatment, this may take away some of their reservations about going through with it.
Sedation dentistry can be used whenever necessary if it brings comfort to the patient, but is most commonly used for procedures such as root canal treatments, large fillings, dental implants, and the like. Or, when undergoing more than one procedure at a time.
Types of Sedation Available
There are multiple types of sedation available that can be used to help patients with their dental care.
Nitrous Oxide
This type of sedation involves breathing in the nitrous oxide gas through a mask that is worn over the nose during the treatment. Patients will start feeling the effects of it moments after inhaling it and they will begin to disappear moments after the mask is removed.
This treatment has been highly effective for kids and adults alike in providing relaxation throughout dental visits.
Nitrous Oxide with Valium
While nitrous oxide works beautifully for many patients, those who are a bit more anxious require a little more. Valium can be taken prior to the appointment and combined with the gas during it.
This proves itself time and time again as one of the best solutions for apprehensive patients.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation is moderate sedation using an anti-anxiety pill that is taken prior to the dental appointment. Patients will remain conscious and able to communicate when necessary but often don’t have much memory of the procedure once it is over.
This can be a great sedation option for those with moderate fears, gag reflect issues, or require multiple dental treatments at once.
Sleep Dentistry
Sleep dentistry is the least common type of sedation used, but can be highly beneficial for those patients who need a lot of dental work. As its name suggests, patients are asleep during the procedure with the help of a licensed dental anesthesiologist.
General anesthesia through IV sedation keeps you comfortable and asleep for the entire dental procedure while being monitored carefully for safety.
Can You Ask Your Dentist For Sedation?
If you have concerns about going through with your dental procedure and you think that sedation may help, talk to your dentist. They will work with you to find the best solution so that your oral health needs can be met. After all, your dentist will want you to be as relaxed and comfortable as possible. Not only does this make it a more pleasant experience for you but it also helps the dentist get through it more efficiently by only needing to focus on the task at hand.
It is important to note that not everyone is a candidate for every type of sedation. Being open with your dentist is the only way to achieve the best results.
Let’s Talk About Sedation Dentistry at Champagne Smiles
If you feel that you may need sedation dentistry to get through your dental procedure or you have questions about how it may benefit you, the dental team at Champagne Smiles can help. We provide different levels of sedation so that our patients can get through their dental treatments with ease.
To learn more, contact us at 732-972-0918. Or request an appointment online.