Sedation Dentistry
Millions of people are afraid of going to the dentist and, because of that fear, often put off necessary treatment until the problems become severe. Now, thanks to sedation dentistry, that doesn’t have to happen any longer. People with high levels of anxiety and fear can now be sedated through various methods. These methods of sedation can be used by themselves or can be combined to achieve the most appropriate level of sedation to accommodate different patients. This article will look at the various types and methods of sedation available to patients.
Nitrous oxide sedation
The most common inhaled gas for sedation dentistry is nitrous oxide which is also known as “laughing gas”. This is administered through a tube connected to a hood that you wear over the nose. By breathing through your nose, you become sedated and calm from the nitrous oxide.
There are some other volatile liquids that are inhaled, but these typically induce a state of unconsciousness or general anesthesia and should only be used by someone trained in their use. As with IV sedation, anyone being sedated with gas should be monitored as well.
Intravenous sedation
Another type of sedation for dental procedures is IV sedation. This involves placing a catheter in a vein and delivering the medication in that fashion. The medications that can be used include the IV form of the benzodiazepines already mentioned. Barbiturates can also be used. These medications are used for sedation and anxiety, but not for pain. The dentist will usually use local anesthesia (a numbing shot) once the patient is sedated.
Narcotics can also be used for sedation as well as generalized pain relief. Another drug which can be used for sedation dentistry is propofol. The level of sedation with the IV medications can be deeper than that achieved with oral sedation. Your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and oxygen level should be monitored during the sedation and the procedure.
Advantages
- The patient has the advantage of sedation and at the same time does not have the fees associated with an IV sedation.
- It is much easier to administer by mouth than by IV
- It is generally safer and easier to monitor
- Almost all people respond very favorably to orally administered sedation.
More information about sedation dentistry
For further information about sedation dentistry, please give your contacts at the Free Quick Callback box below so that our colleagues could reach you as soon as possible!