If you have ever been to the dentist, you may have been given the option of sedation dentistry. This type of dentistry can be used for various procedures, and it can be a great way to help alleviate some of the anxiety people feel when they think about going to the dentist. Emerson sedation dentistry can help you get through your dental procedure with little discomfort.
Sedation dentistry can be used for routine cleanings and invasive procedures such as root canals. Sedation dentistry is sometimes referred to as sleep dentistry and can be used for various approaches. It is important to note that not all procedures require sedation, and your dentist can be able to tell you if sedation is right for you.
What can you expect from sedation dentistry?
The first thing that you should know is that sedation dentistry is not full anesthesia. Anesthesia is used to put a patient to sleep completely, and it is not something that is typically used for dental procedures. Sedation dentistry can help relax patients and make them less aware of what is happening around them, but it can not put them to sleep.
The level of sedation that is used will be based on the procedure being performed as well as the preference of the patient. Some patients may only need a light sedative to help them relax, while others may require a deeper level of sedation.
It is critical to note that you will be awake during your dental operation and will be able to answer queries from your dentist. You may not remember much about the operation, but you should be able to return home and resume your daily routines.
Below are the most common sedation dentistry types:
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is a gas inhaled through a mask to help the patient relax. Because the effects of nitrous gas wear off rapidly, most patients may drive themselves home after their surgery. It is also referred to as laughing gas.
Oral sedation
This type of sedation is taken in pill form, and it works to relax the patient. Oral sedation can range from mild to moderate, and the effects can last a few hours after the procedure is completed. Patients who receive oral sedation will need someone to drive them home after their procedure.
IV sedation
You need to understand that IV sedation is a more serious type of sedation and is usually only used for more invasive procedures. This type of sedation is administered through an IV, and it works to relax the patient. Some of the invasive procedures that might require IV sedation include root canals and wisdom tooth extractions.
After the procedure is completed, the effects of the sedation will wear off, and you can go about your day as usual. It is important to note that you should not drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of the sedation have worn off completely.
Sedation dentistry can be an excellent option for those who are nervous about going to the dentist and who need to have a more invasive procedure performed. If you think sedation dentistry might be right for you, talk to your dentist at Emerson Dental Arts about your options.