What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Dentistry 

Maxus Dental understands that going to the dentist is not everybody’s favorite activity. In fact, many people suffer from what is called dental anxiety, which prevents them from going to the dentist altogether. That being said, routine dental checkups are critical for your health. Sedation dentistry is an option that helps patients feel more relaxed in the dentist chair. 

Types of Oral Sedation

• Nitrous Oxide – also known as laughing gas is a popular sedation option. The dentist places a mask over your nose that combines oxygen with nitrous oxide. The gas mixture is controlled, and will help you relax. Additionally, the gas wears off quickly, which means you potentially could drive home after the appointment.

• Minimal to Moderate Strength Pills – Halcion and Valium are two pills commonly used to induce drowsiness or sleep. Usually, patients will consume the medication one hour before their procedure. The dentist can provide a minimum to moderate dosage depending on the patient.

• IV Sedation – Considered fast acting, dentists can inject a sedative through an IV that goes into the patient’s vein. Throughout the procedure, the dentist can control the amount of sedation.

• General Anesthesia – This option will put the patient in a deep sleep that they usually cannot wake from until the medication wears off. The patient is considered unconscious while under deep sedation or general anesthesia.

Patients Eligible for Sedation Dentistry 

Maxus Dental recommends oral sedation options for patients who experience any of the following:

• Low pain tolerance
• Dental anxiety
• Sensitive teeth
• Bad gag reflex
• Major dental appointment

Nitrous oxide is typically the safest sedation option for children. Usually, if they are scared of the dentist or have problems sitting still, a dentist can provide oral sedation. The dosage must be maintained within the recommendations for the child’s weight and height.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Dental regulations are governed by each states’ dental board. Most states will require dentists to have permits in order to perform sedation treatments on patients. General anesthesia is considered the riskiest treatment overall, but is safe when in the hands of a medical or dental Anesthesiologist. Patients who suffer from sleep apnea or obesity should consult before receiving any form of sedation. 

Before any patients receive a form of sedation dentistry, they should consult with their dentist about:

• Their medical history
• Sedation dosage for the treatment
• Dentist’s previous trainings
• Risks of the procedure

Before deciding if oral sedation is the right option, consider the types of sedation available, health conditions of the patient, and have a consultation with an experienced dentist.