The stress and worry of visiting the dentist is deeply ingrained in many of us. Some people avoid going, even when they suspect they have cavities. Others learn to tolerate excruciating pain in their mouth as long as they don’t have to have dental work done on their teeth. In response to these anxieties, many oral care professionals now use a technique called sedation dentistry, a method of performing dental work that alleviates the stress, pain, and discomfort. In fact, some patients report that procedures seem to only take seconds to perform (though they may have actually taken hours).
Below, you’ll discover how sedation dentistry works. We’ll also explain the different ways in which the anesthetic is administered, the type of patients who are good candidates, and what to consider when looking for a dentist who specializes in this area.
How Sedation Dentistry Works
Before administering the medications, your dentist should first monitor your breathing and heart rate. He may also want to watch your blood pressure to ensure there are no surprises once you have received the sedative. After you have been sedated, the oral care professional will perform the dental procedure you need to have done. A trained dental expert can accomplish multiple procedures while you are sedated.
The discomfort that you would normally experience while having dental work done is eliminated. Plus, once you wake up, you are unlikely to remember any part of the procedure.
Each Situation Is Unique
Technically, sedation dentistry includes a number of options, such as local anesthesia, nitrous oxide gas, sedatives in pill form, and I.V. sedation. Some patients choose local anesthesia because they want to remain awake during the procedure. Others prefer nitrous oxide gas, which also allows patients to remain awake, though they are less alert. Experts who lack the training required to administer I.V. medications occasionally provide them in pill form.
Many dentists consider I.V. to be the most effective method. First, they are required to receive additional training to administer a medication through an I.V. Second, the patient’s level of ‘sleep’ can be more precisely controlled than other methods. Third, when the medications are delivered intravenously, they work immediately, allowing the dentist to begin work more quickly.
Who Is A Good Candidate
Sedation dentistry is a viable option for those who experience severe anxiety when sitting in the chair. When provided with a sedative intravenously, a patient will often go to sleep within seconds, awaking after the work has been performed. This form of dentistry is also useful in cases where a patient must have complex procedures done. In such cases, the dental care professional will recommend a sedative in order to perform the work quickly and efficiently.
Factors To Consider When Selecting A Dentist
Though an experienced dental expert can administer an I.V. sedative easily, he is required to have earned certification to do so. Ask your dentist about the education and training of his staff. Also, inquire about his involvement in any organizations, which promote the ongoing development of this form of oral care. Often, these organizations provide opportunities for continuous training and education. Finally, ask how the sedatives are administered. While nitrous oxide gas and pills can be effective, I.V. is often recommended.
Going to a Hopkins dentist, or in another city, does not have to be a painful ordeal. Sedation dentistry allows patients to relax, confident that they will receive the care they need to maintain good dental health without the anxiety. Whether having a tooth extracted, a root canal performed, or a crown placed, patients can leave their phobias about the dentist behind.