Sedation Dentistry
Just the thought of the dentist can make individuals anxious. Many American don’t go to the dentist for their twice-yearly dental exams for this very reason. Sedation therapy is a safe way and comfortable option to calm even the most anxious patients.
A common belief is that sedation therapy put patients to sleep, however, they actually tend to keep patients from falling asleep during a procedure. Some medications trigger sleepiness but oral conscious sedation, IV sedation, and nitrous oxide are solely made to reduce anxiety.
Sedation dentistry is especially good for nervous patients because it doesn’t involve injections or pain and is simply taken by mouth. After being given a sedative, many patients don’t remember any details of their procedure.
If you are given a sedative, it’s important you have someone who can take you to and from the appointment, especially if you were given it the night before. There are many benefits of sedation dentistry including:
- Reduces anxiety
- Minimal side effects
- More productive visits
- No injections required
- Shorter procedure time
- Pain-free
- Safe
What kinds of sedatives are available?
The most common kind of sedatives includes IV sedation, conscious sedation, and nitrous oxide.
Our highly skilled staff at Petri Dental are able to administer different amounts of sedation depending on a patient’s nervousness. These include mild, moderate, or deep. Prior to choosing any sedative, we do a thorough analysis of your medical history and medications you’ve recently or currently take.
Dental sedatives we offer include:
Nitrous Oxide: Often referred to as “laughing gas,” is categorized as a mild sedative. It’s taken through the nose and releases sedation continuously during your procedure. You may also experience tingling or numbness. This type of sedation is safe, enhances, your mood, and reduces anxiety.
IV Sedation: This sedation is categorized as moderate. Many individuals say this type of sedation made them feel like they were asleep throughout the procedure. This is typically used for shorter procedures. It’s injected directly into your bloodstream and begins working instantly. It’s common for individuals to feel drowsy or tired after the procedure. Because of these effects, it’s crucial to have someone drive you home.
Oral Conscious Sedation: This sedation is ideal for individuals who are afraid of needles. An oral medication is taken before your treatment and might be enhanced right before the procedure.
What types of drugs are used in oral conscious sedation?
The majority are categorized as “benzodiazepines.” This type of drug alleviates anxiety, seizures, insomnia, and muscle spasms. Each
The kind of drug chosen depends on the procedure time. We use the following drugs in oral conscious sedation:
- Valium® – This sedative has amnesia-like effects and is generally administered for longer and more complicated procedures
- Halcion® – This too, has amnesia-like effects and is generally used for short and simple procedures.
