A Look at Sedation Dentistry

Thinking sedation dentistry might be able to help you overcome dental phobias? Many people avoid going to the dental office because they experience fear, anxiety, or nervousness when going. However, what may not be understood is that this can be dangerous to oral health. Regular dental appointments are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. When individuals avoid seeing the dentist as often as needed, which should be at least once a year, the chances of experiencing dental problems are much higher. Later on, this can cause even more problems for the patient. Cavities or infections may get worse, resulting in the need to get more work, which can ultimately be more costly and painful. 

According to the American Dental Association, the more one delays going to the dentist, the higher the risk of developing dental problems, making gearing up for future dental visits more difficult. Because of this fact, it is recommended to visit the dentist as often as recommended, or at least twice a year. And, for those that experience dental anxiety, discussing the available options with a professional can go a long way.

About sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry is the field that offers various sedatives to help patients feel at ease during procedures and appointments. The whole point of sedation is to help patients relax when at the dental office. Even though people who experience fear and anxiety want to get the dental care they need, they cannot always overcome their phobia. However, with sedation dentistry, there is hope. It is important to understand that it is not a matter of willpower. This is the reason for sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry is used to help dental patients reach a state of relaxation and calmness, so they no longer feel anxious or afraid to sit in a dental chair. There are different levels of sedation available, each made to address all levels of dental phobia. The following information explains some of the more important details of sedation dentistry.

There are four levels of sedation

The four levels of sedation are:

1. Minimal sedation allows the patient to be fully awake yet very relaxed. This option is typically laughing gas, which is medically referred to as nitrous oxide. It is inhaled through a facial mask, and the effects do not linger for hours, making it safe and manageable
2. Moderate sedation puts patients in a sleepy state of consciousness, with patients having little memory of any services performed. Most commonly, oral sedatives are provided in the form of a prescription. In some cases, a ride home may be needed to ensure safety
3. Deep sedation means the patient will be in a drug-induced state of depressed consciousness, which means they will not remember the bulk of the appointment. Additionally, this helps to sedate the patient, making it next to impossible to experience fear or anxiety
4. When general anesthesia is used, the patient is fully unconscious. This approach is most commonly used for oral surgeries or procedures that can be extremely painful and involved.

Sedation dentistry requires special training

Dentists must undergo special training in order to perform the last two levels of sedation dentistry on their patients. It is essential for patients to choose a dentist that they can feel completely comfortable with, as they are instilling all of their trust in the dentist. This means a dentist should not only be fully qualified to provide their patients with levels of sedation, but they also need that special skill of knowing how to talk with patients who are suffering from any type of dental phobia.

Sedation dentistry is safe

Sedation dentistry is safe when it is administered to patients by a qualified and experienced dentist. It is important for patients to understand that with any type of sedation comes to some risks and the potential to experience side effects. For example, everyone reacts differently to certain medications, including sedation-based medications, whether it be an allergy or something as simple as an upset stomach. This is why it is so important for a dentist to have the proper training and to communicate early on. 

Ready to see if this option works for you?

The level of dental phobia experienced will determine which level of sedation is most suitable. Many patients are surprised, as well as pleased, to find out how well sedation dentistry works for them. Reach out to our office today to find out more about sedation dentistry.

Request an appointment here: https://www.northcoastfamilydental.com or call North Coast Dental Implants & Cosmetics at (760) 705-3407 for an appointment in our San Marcos office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Sedation Dentist in San Marcos, CA.