What You Need to Know About Sedation Dentistry

If thinking about a dental appointment leaves you uncomfortable and anxious, then you should consider opting for sedation dentistry. Dental anxiety is a serious condition that affects almost 40% of dental patients. When left unchecked, it can lead to cancelled dental appointments and neglect when it comes to oral hygiene.

Patient undergoing sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry is the solution to issues with anxiety. Many people would rather hide in fear than walk into a dental clinic. For others, this anxiety manifests in the form of tears, excessive sweating and extreme discomfort. Sedation dentistry can help take away all of the symptoms of dental anxiety.

With sedation dentistry, you can finally get the adequate dental care that you need. However, many people do not even know sedation dentistry exists. It is a real thing, and it may just be the solution to all of your anxiety issues in the dentist's chair.

All You Need to Know About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry involves the use of special medication to help you calm down and relax during dental treatments. There are different levels of sedation dentistry. They include:

  • Minimal sedation to keep you relaxed yet awake
  • Moderate sedation will allow you to communicate. However, you may not remember much about the procedure.
  • Deep sedation leaves you mostly unconscious. However, your dentist can wake you up if there is a need.

Sedation dentistry is different from anesthesia. There is a popular misconception that the two are the same. However, that isn't true. Sedatives help you relax while anesthesia makes sure that you won't feel any pain during your dental treatment.

Sedation Dentistry is Safe

There are minimal risks associated with the use of sedation dentistry. Most of the sedatives used during treatment have been certified and researched thoroughly to ensure maximum safety and effectiveness. The type of sedative your dentist will use is a factor of how intense your anxiety is. Your dentist may prescribe oral drugs for you or opt for an IV drip.

Who Can Administer Sedatives?

Generally, all dentists are able to provide patients with oral sedation. Also, many dentists are quite capable of administering moderate sedation. However, deep sedation dentistry is a complex procedure. Sedation dentists have to receive unique training and obtain proper certification before administering deep sedation. Dentists who can provide you with deep sedation are oral surgeons and dentist anesthesiologists.

Popular Methods of Administering Sedation

Sedation dentists can use various forms of sedatives. They include:

  • Oral sedatives in tablet form
  • Moderate sedation administered via intravenous drops
  • General anesthesia and deep sedation

Can I Use Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is for you if you suffer some form of dental anxiety. People who suffer from anxiety in dental settings are the main target of sedation dentistry. However, it may also be recommended for you even if you don't suffer from anxiety.

Sedation dentistry is great for you if you:

  • Need a lot of work done
  • Have suffered from traumatic dental experiences in the past
  • Have overly sensitive teeth and gums
  • Cannot stay still during your procedure
  • Can't control your gag reflexes
  • Have a low threshold for pain

Summary

Sedation dentistry makes it easier for patients to undergo routine as well as complicated dental procedures. It is a good option if you are looking to deal with dental anxiety. It also helps make sure that you sit still and enjoy a stress-free dental examination.

For people with low pain thresholds, sedation dentistry can make dental procedures and examinations a comfortable experience. Contact Newcastle Village Dental for questions about sedation dentistry. We will be more than happy to help!

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Mon 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
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Wed 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Thu 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Fri 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sat 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (Alternate)
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