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Sedation Dentistry 101: Everything You Need to Know

Jun 01, 2020

Do you know about 30 percent of adults actively ignore visiting the dentist because of fear? Dental procedures are known to be painful and most people would rather live with the pain than go through the experience. But, with the advancement in dental technology, we have sedation dentistry that can help control the dental phobia.

What is Dental Sedation?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedative drugs that are administered orally or intravenously to reduce anxiety and phobia. Although it is often referred to as sleep dentistry, dental sedation rarely causes you to sleep.

Does it Cause Unconsciousness?

No. Some people have a phobia for dental sedation because it is believed to cause unconsciousness. Rarely does our dentist put you to sleep unless the dental procedure is severe. The different types of dental sedation include:

    • Nitrous Oxide sedation

Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is local sedation. It is an odorless and colorless gas that gives a ‘feel good’ sensation when it begins to take effect. It is the most common sedation type because it takes effect quickly and also wears off relatively fast. Plus, it has no side effects, making it ideal for children.

You can resume your normal activities in no time, but the dentist sometimes uses oxygen to revert the effects of Nitrous Oxide.

    • Oral sedation

Oral sedation involves the use of sedative drugs that are taken orally to ease anxiety. The pill is given a few hours before the procedure to give it time to metabolize. However, because it is a pill, the dosage cannot be changed or increased. Also, oral sedation takes time to wear off and you need someone to drive you to and from the dental clinic.

    • Intravenous sedation

The drugs are given via the veins based on your level of anxiety, the type, and the complexity of the dental procedure. IV sedation is also referred to as conscious sedation because it does not put you to sleep, but you will be less aware of the procedure.

    • General sedation

General or deep sedation causes you to sleep and is ideal for severe dental procedures. The sedation does not wear off quickly and our dentist uses medication to reduce its effects.

How Long Will the Sedation take to Wear Off?

Everybody is different; some people recover quickly and others don’t. The time sedative will take to wear off depends on the type, the dosage, the length of the dental procedure, and your body’s ability to recover.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Dental sedation has minimal or no side effects. Most people have reported positive results after getting dental sedation. Our dentist in Brampton will give you the information you need about the pros, cons, and risks involved in all the different types.

Will I Feel Pain During the Dental Procedure?

No. Local anesthesia is still used to numb the gums. However, you may experience discomfort when the anesthesia begins to reduce. The pain will depend on the type of procedure that has been done.
The dentist will give your aftercare instructions on how to care for your dental health to facilitate healing.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Sedation?

Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients who have dental phobia. However, if you have any of the following oral concerns, dental sedation may be used:

  • An overactive gag reflex. The gag reflex protects against foreign materials. Although a natural phenomenon, some people have a severe gag reflex that may interfere with certain dental procedures.
  • Have overly sensitive teeth that make react to the dental tools.
  • You have a low threshold of pain
  • The dental procedure to be performed is complex and painful such as impacted wisdom tooth extraction
  • You have experienced a traumatic dental procedure before
  • Afraid of needles and shots
  • You simply want to relax and have a comfortable dental experience

Schedule an Appointment

Dental phobia may keep you from getting your routine dental checkup, but it shouldn’t. With sedation dentistry, the dentist will make the treatment pain-free and comfortable. Visit Rosedale Dental Care today for a great dental service.

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