Patients who have a phobia of the dentist benefit greatly from the comfort and relaxation sedation dentistry can provide. However, dentists can also use sedation to help you in other ways. Here are a few reasons why you might want to talk to your dentist about how sedation can benefit you at your next appointment.
What are the Types of Sedation Dentistry?
There are three categories the medications for sedation dentistry fall into:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) – Nitrous oxide is the lightest form of sedation dentists offer and is administered as a gas through a nasal mask. The relaxing effects are felt within 2 to 3 minutes and dissipate 3 to 5 minutes after the procedure. Dentists like nitrous oxide because it is easy to adjust the depth of sedation.
- Oral conscious sedation (pill) – Oral sedation is a prescription pill medication usually taken 20 minutes to an hour before a procedure. This sedative is stronger than nitrous oxide and can make you groggy or fall asleep. Many patients report only having foggy memories of their visit afterward, which can create a positive association of dental appointments in the future.
- Intravenous (IV) sedation – IV sedation is the deepest form of conscious sedation dentists provide and goes directly into the bloodstream via an IV line. Most patients stay awake, but some patients fall asleep and/or have little to no memory of their treatment when they regain consciousness. Like nitrous oxide, IV sedation allows dentists to continually adjust the level of sedation.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry Unrelated to Anxiety
- Multiple dental procedures can be completed in a single visit.
- Sedation dentistry can lessen pain and recovery time.
- Patients can remain calm while still being responsive to verbal commands and physical touch.
- Allows the dentist to work faster.
- Sedation can help if you have trouble sitting still.
- It reduces head, neck, and jaw discomfort in the dental chair.
- Light sedation can reduce overstimulation from the dental office.
Which Form of Sedation is Right for Me?
Nitrous oxide is recommended for patients who might have mild to moderate dental anxiety or are undergoing dental procedures such as cleanings or fillings.
Oral sedation provides a calming effect for people with anxious thoughts and prevents nervousness or movement from disrupting your dental work. It is also helpful for patients who need multiple procedures at once or who have difficulty laying in one position for too long.
IV sedation is often used for patients undergoing multiple, complex, or lengthy procedures, such as implant surgery or tooth extraction.
If you’re wondering if you can be a candidate for sedation dentistry, the first step is to consult your dentist. From there, your dentist can look at your medical history to determine which form of sedation is most suitable for your needs. Don’t be shy! Sedation dentistry isn’t just for people with dental anxiety, and your dentist’s top priority is your comfort.
About the Author
Dr. John C. Tunnell is a board-certified periodontist dedicated to offering the east Dallas area a variety of dental services with a focus on quality and comfort. Central Perio’s philosophy is giving every patient individualized care: your needs and dental goals are their priority. If you want more information about sedation, you can reach Dr. Tunnell through his website or by phone at (469) 640-6730.