Going to the dentist is usually not one of the highlights of your busy agenda, but most are able to go and sit through their regular dental checkups as need be. While this is a seemingly routine matter for most, some people have a severe fear of visiting their local dentist. This fear can be so debilitating that it actually prevents people from even stepping foot inside a dentist office. Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaing good oral health, so avoiding these visits can greatly impact a person’s health. Is there anyway that people who suffer from a fear of the dentist can attend their checkups in a safe and relaxed manner? The answer is yes, and the solution lies in sedation dentistry.
What is Oral Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry relies on the use of medication to relax patients, allowing them to sit through dental procedures that would otherwise induce a panic attack. There are different levels of sedation that a dentist can used, depending on the procedure and intensity of the patient’s fear. The different levels of sedation are minimal, in which the patient feels relaxed but is still awake, moderate, in which the patient is conscious but may not remember the procedure, deep sedation, in which the patient is barely conscious but can still be awakened, and general anesthesia, in which the patient is not conscious at all.
How are these Different Types of Sedation Administered?
A minimal level of sedation is typically induced with nitrous oxide gas. A mask is placed over the patient’s nose and mouth as they slowly breathe in a mixture of the gas and oxygen. This type of sedation allows the dentist to control the level of relaxation felt by the patient.
Minimal to moderate sedation can also be administered through oral medication. A pill, usually a medication in the Valium family, is taken about an hour before the procedure to allow the sedative time to work. This is the most common type of sedation at the dentist.
Iv sedation dentistry is another option in which the medication is injected into the patient through a vein. This type of sedation is usually used for a moderate level of relaxation. The dentist can inject more medication to further relax the patient if necessary.
Why Get Sedation at the Dentist?
Having sedation at the dentist can allow patients with a fear of the dentist to get through procedures that would normally cause them a great deal of fear and discomfort. It is extremely important to attend regular dental visits in order to keep up dental hygiene and avoid dental diseases. A fear of the dentist can hinder people from getting their regular checkups and maintaining healthy teeth. Sedation dentistry offers a solution for those who fear the dentist. Great references here.
