Sedation Dentistry

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Many people, no matter what age, become anxious at the thought of being in the dentist’s chair. For these people, sedation dentistry is a great option. Certainly, sedation is extremely helpful for long, complicated dental procedures, but for patients who have serious fears of the dentist’s office, it can be used for even the most simple dental procedures, such as dental cleanings. At Concerned Dental, our goal is to keep your teeth and mouth as healthy as possible while ensuring your comfort. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry for any of our patients who request this service during any of our procedures.

Why Is Sedation Dentistry Used?

You may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry at Concerned Dental if you:

• Can't sit still in the dentist's chair
• Have a low threshold for pain
• Have an abnormally pronounced gag reflex
• Have extremely sensitive teeth
• Require an unusually large amount of dental work

What Does Sedation Dentistry Involve?

There are several levels of sedation used by dentists. These include:

• Minimal sedation in which the patient is awake but fully relaxed
• Moderate ("conscious") sedation in which the patient is partially "under," may slur words, and may not remember the procedure afterward
• Deep sedation during which the patient remains at the edge of consciousness but can be roused
• General anesthesia during which the patient is completely unconscious

Means of Administering Dental Sedation

Dental sedation can be administered in a number of ways. These include:

Inhalation

During inhalation sedation, the patient inhales a combination of nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") and oxygen through a mask placed over the nose. This helps the patient relax. Because nitrous oxide wears off quickly, patients may be able to drive themselves home after the procedure.

Oral Sedation

This method involves patients taking a pill, usually Halcion (related to Valium), about an hour prior to the dental procedure. Patients typically become groggy enough from this medication to sleep through the procedure, but can be awakened.

IV Moderate Sedation

This form of sedation is administered intravenously and works quickly. Because the dentist has control of the amount of medication entering the patient’s vein, the dentist can adjust the sedation level as necessary.

Deep Sedation And General Anesthesia

This type of sedation renders the patient almost or entirely unconscious, depending upon the amount administered.

Regardless of the type of sedation administered, the patient typically receives a local anesthetic as well to relieve pain at the treatment site.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

When properly administered, sedation and anesthesia are quite safe, but there is always some risk involved. People at greater risk of complications are those who are obese or who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea.

Patients should always make sure that the dentist administering sedation or anesthesia has the proper training and has performed many such procedures previously. In addition, the dosage being administered should always be within the dose recommended by the FDA and there should always be oxygen, artificial ventilation, and medications to reverse the effects of sedation available in case of a problem.

What Are the Benefits of Using Sedation Dentistry?

Choosing to visit our experienced dentists at Concerned Dental for your sedation dentistry can offer you the below benefits:

• In-house pediatric oral surgeons, orthodontists, and general dentists all under one roof
• Can prevent gum disease
• Safe for patients
• Eases discomfort and nerves
• Enables regular dental care for those who could not otherwise tolerate it
• Maintains tooth and gum health
• Helps your dentist preserve your overall oral health