Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

If you are feeling nervous or anxious about your upcoming dental procedure, you may be a candidate for sedation dentistry. This medication can help you relax during your appointment, and you will almost feel like you’re asleep. Here are a few frequently asked questions about sedation dentistry.

QUESTION: What is sedation dentistry?

Also known as “sleep dentistry,” sedation dentistry is a form of treatment that involves the use of sedatives to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are different levels of sedation that can be used depending on your needs and the type of procedure you are undergoing. The effects of sedation will vary depending on the type of sedation used and your level of health. 

The benefits of sedation include reduced anxiety, reduced pain and discomfort, and shorter recovery times. These effects will also make it much easier for you to receive multiple treatments in a single visit. Patients who suffer from dental anxiety can benefit from sedation because it can make it possible for them to receive the dental care they need without the fear and stress of visiting the dentist’s office.

QUESTION:What are the different types of sedation dentistry?

While your dental health professional will perform all necessary procedures to ensure your oral health, sometimes a patient may struggle with anxiety or fear surrounding their appointment. To help with this, many dentists offer various levels of sedation to help patients relax during their procedure. Here are a few common ones you may encounter.

• Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas): This is the most common form of sedation for dental care and is often provided through a mask placed over the nose. When inhaled, this gas has a calming effect and helps to alleviate nervous tension while alleviating pain at the same time. Patients are able to breathe on their own and respond to verbal cues from the dentist easily throughout the treatment process. The effects will wear off immediately after treatment, and patients are able to continue with their daily activities after they are cleared to do so.
• Oral Sedation: This type of sedation involves taking a pill before your appointment. There are many different types of oral sedatives. Some work quickly, while others take some time to kick in. Your dentist will be able to discuss the benefits of each with you and help you determine which one is best for your individual needs. Oral sedatives allow the patient to relax throughout their visit and can often eliminate any memory of the procedure completely. Patients are instructed not to drive themselves home following this form of sedation as they are still under the influence of the sedative. Many patients do feel groggy after they awaken from this type of sedation as well.
• IV Sedation: Intravenous sedation is the deepest level of sedation available. It involves administering medication directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous line. The effects are immediate and take effect right away. Patients often have no memory of their procedure afterward. Patients do not remember anything that happened during the procedure and are only able to respond to commands from their dentist.

QUESTION: Is sedation dentistry safe?

Yes! If you choose oral conscious sedation, you’ll be completely at ease during your procedure and won’t feel any pain. Oral conscious sedation is very effective for patients who are very nervous about receiving dental treatment. In fact, sedation dentistry can make your treatment more relaxing than getting a massage or taking a nap! Your dentist will be happy to discuss which type of sedation is right for you prior to your appointment.

If you opt for IV sedation or general anesthesia, you will be fully unconscious for the duration of your procedure and have no memory of the procedure whatsoever. Not to worry, though – the procedures are completely safe and under the supervision of a trained professional. Your anesthesia provider will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and other vitals throughout your treatment. You’ll awaken with little to no memory of your procedure and will be feeling great!

QUESTION: What are sedatives used for?

The use of sedatives in dentistry is common. Patients of all ages can benefit from sedation because the medications help patients feel relaxed and calm during their visit with us. The different types of sedatives offer different benefits, and your dentist will be able to find the right choice for you based on your medical history, current medical conditions, and the procedure that you want to have completed. Here are some of the common reasons people choose to use sedation during dental treatments.

• Treatment Comfort – Some people have a hard time sitting in the dentist’s chair due to anxiety from previous experiences. Others just find treatments to be uncomfortable and stressful. Sedatives can help make treatment more comfortable and relaxing.
• Longer Treatments – Many people are not able to have restorative procedures like root canals or dental implants completed in one appointment because of fear and anxiety. Sedatives can help keep a patient calm and relaxed, so the patient is able to have multiple procedures completed during a single office visit.
• Procedures for Younger Children – Young children are often unable to sit still for a procedure or are too afraid. Sedatives can be given to a child to help him, or her remain calm and comfortable throughout their dental treatments.
• Patients with Medical Conditions – Patients who have certain medical conditions may not be able to tolerate the stress and anxiety of undergoing dental procedures. Sedatives can be used in these situations to help keep the patient comfortable and relaxed during the procedure.

QUESTION:Will I feel pain during sedation?

Absolutely not! In fact, many patients fall asleep during their procedure and wake up feeling relaxed and refreshed once it’s all over.