Sedation dentistry is a new procedure that allows even the most squeamish of patients to receive the proper dental care they need and deserve. Can’t stand the sound of the dentist’s drill?
Do your palms get sweaty and your head gets faint at the mention of the word “dentist”? Would you rather be chased down by an angry nest of hornet’s than sit in the dentist’s chair? We understand. Sedation dentistry was created for people just like you.
So What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the process of inducing a relaxed (sedated) state in the patient prior to the dental appointment. This can be accomplished thought the administration of oral medications, such as anti-anxiety, or sedation drugs, or through the use of nitrous oxide gas.
These medications can be delivered by mouth, intravenously, intramuscularly, or through inhalation. Oral medications and inhalation methods are the most common.
In addition, topical anesthetics can also be used to numb injection sites, the gums, or oral mucosa prior to the start of procedures to further reduce discomfort in an anxious patient.
Sedation Dentistry: What Should I Expect?
You will be really groggy from all of the medication, so make sure you have someone there to get you home, as you will not be able to drive. In addition, until all of the medication is out of your system, you shouldn't attempt to cook, nor care for children.
Once you receive your sedation therapy, you'll begin to feel very drowsy. Many patients describe this as feeling “floaty”, as if you are light-headed and might float away into the atmosphere.
You'll feel relaxed, calm, and happy. You may experience a fit of giggles, or slurred speech, but will return to normal once the medication wears off.
Often, patients describe dental visits under sedation dentistry as taking only a few minutes when in fact, the appointment lasted much longer. Because of this mental alteration, you might be able to tolerate much longer procedures than you would without the sedation.
Don’t let your anxieties and fears keep you away from the dentist. Even if you take excellent care of your teeth (which you should) – make sure that you still keep to your appointments.
While sedation dentistry isn't for everyone, you should discuss it with your dentist – it could prove to be the ‘miracle’ you’ve been waiting for!
Whoa! So that's how sedation dentistry works! Now that I think about it, it's really an effective way to get people to keep their dental appointments. You won't have to worry about the pain 'cause you'd be asleep throughout the whole procedure.
ReplyDeleteFred Collinsworth
Sedation Dentistry is highly needed especially for a little complicated operations. Kids would also need this since they don't easily tolerate pain.
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