Sedation Dentistry: What is It?

You may have heard the term “Sedation Dentistry” in advertisements and on dental websites but are not really sure exactly what it means. If so, read on to find out more about this popular trend in dentistry.

Sedation Dentistry is a generalized term that is used to describe dentistry that is performed while patients are under some type of sedative medication or combination of medications. This advanced dental service is a good option for patients with dental phobias (fear of the dentist). It can also be a good solution for patients with severe gag reflexes, difficulty getting numb and physical or developmental disabilities that make it difficult to receive dental treatment. Patients who require multiple procedures and want to have them completed in one dental visit can also benefit from Sedation Dentistry. In some cases, Sedation Dentistry is used for patients who simply desire a more pleasant dental experience. Due to patient demand, many dental practices around the United States currently some form of Sedation Dentistry.

Nitrous Oxide is one form of sedation that is offered by many dentists. Nitrous Oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be inhaled to produce a euphoric feeling and to alleviate or diminish pain. Under Nitrous Oxide, patients remain aware of their surroundings and are able to respond to simple commands. However, this mild sedative helps to relax nerves and calm anxieties, thereby making the overall dentist experience more pleasant.

Oral Conscious Sedation is another form of sedation used in dentistry. With this type of Sedation Dentistry, sedative medications are given to patients orally prior to their dental procedures. The oral sedative medications produce a drowsy effect and make patients slightly less focused on their surroundings but will not put them fully to sleep. Due to the lingering drowsy effect of this form of sedation, patients must arrange for transportation both to and from the dentist’s office by another responsible adult.

IV Sedation is another form of Sedation Dentistry that involves administering sedative medications intravenously. This type of sedation is normally reserved for very serious cases or cases where a physical or developmental disability makes it difficult for the patient to receive care. Often, IV Sedation is administered in a hospital or surgery center setting.

If you are interested in Sedation Dentistry, talk to your dentist today. Together, you and your dentist can determine if Sedation Dentistry is right for you and then decide which form of sedation will best meet your needs.