What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Dentist Blog

If you have recently reviewed some of the services that are offered by dentists in your local area, you may have noticed sedation dentistry among the listings. However, you may know little about this area of dentistry. Here is some information about sedation dentistry and how it can be used to benefit you.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is an area of dentistry that uses sedation to make dental patients more comfortable during treatment.

Why is sedation dentistry needed?

Many people are afraid of visiting a dentist. When dental fears develop, especially during childhood, it can make it difficult for adult patients to receive the treatment that they need. Cavities and gum problems can worsen over time if left untreated. Sedation dentistry alleviates fear and helps people relax as they receive dental care.

In some instances, a dental patient doesn't have an overwhelming fear of visiting a dentist, but the patient may be scheduled to have a lengthy dental procedure. Sedation can help the patient remain still and relaxed to make the procedure faster and less cumbersome. 

What types of sedation medicine are used in dentistry?

There are several categories of sedation medication that are used in dentistry. Here are few of them:

  • Oral Sedatives: Oral sedatives are taken by mouth, usually about a half hour before a dental visit or treatment is scheduled. The sedatives include medicines, such as Valium, which relax your system and even incite a mild, temporary form of amnesia. As a result, you many not remember the details of your dental procedure if an oral sedative is administered.
  • Inhaled Sedatives: Inhaled sedatives, such as laughing gas, can also be used to calm a dental patient. These sedatives are not long-lasting and are administered through a mask as you sit in the dental chair. Still, with any type of sedative, you may need someone to drive you home after your dental visit.
  • Injected Sedatives: A sedative can be injected during your procedure to help you feel calm and relaxed. As with the other types of sedatives used in sedation dentistry, the amount of injected sedative that is applied is selected based on your body composition, condition and needs.

With sedation dentistry, will you be unconscious throughout your dental procedure?

With sedation dentistry, you may fall asleep during your procedure due to your relaxed state. You may even have dreams during your treatment. However, you will not be unconscious. 

To learn more about sedation dentistry, contact the office of a sedation dentist to schedule a consultation.

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16 August 2017

About Me

Think Twice Before Rationing That Halloween Candy

Halloween is a holiday that my children love, and telling them they can't go door-to-door collecting candy would break their hearts. This led me to allowing them to collect candy on the holiday, then rationing it out to them every day instead of letting them gobble it up in just a few days. I always thought this was better for them, but my dentist told me this could be the reason why their February dental check-ups were always their worst ones. Daily candy consumption was taking a toll on their teeth. I started a new tradition of letting them indulge for two days, then giving them the option to swap the rest with me in exchange for a new toy. They never pass on the opportunity for a new toy. I created this blog to encourage other parents find similar tactics to keep their children's teeth healthy after Halloween.