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People who normally find dentistry very painful or upsetting can try sedation dentistry instead in which sedation medication is used to put the patient at ease while the dentist does the procedure.
Who is Sedation Used For?
People ask for sedation for a wide range of dental procedures, from routine checkups to oral surgery. There are some patients who can’t handle important preventative care like an exam or cleaning without medication. For them, sedation is the key to having healthy teeth and gums for life.
Some people need more complicated, painful procedures that need anesthesia. Though every case is unique, a skilled dentist knows how to handle all of them.
It helps to know what sedation dentistry is before you decide if you need it. You are ready to talk to your dentist about it once you have some basic information. Please keep in mind that the information below is only general and should not be used instead of medical advice.
What is sedation dentistry actually?
A lot of people want to know what sedation dentistry is. Some people who are scared of the dentist can feel better with sedation dentistry. The dentist gives the patient medicine to help them relax during the procedure.
There are four different levels of sedation :
- Minimal sedation : The patient is still awake and aware, but medication helps them relax.
- Moderate Sedation : The person may slur their words and have trouble speaking. They may also forget a lot.
- Deep sedation : The person is almost unconscious until they are woken up.
- Completely Unconscious : The person is unconscious because of general anesthesia.
In addition to sedation, the dentist will usually put a local anaesthetic in the mouth to make the procedure less painful.
Some dental offices hire a dentist anesthesiologist who can give any level of sedation that is needed. Most of the time, these specialists work in dental surgery offices.
When should a person get sedation dentistry?
Some people get very anxious just thinking about going to the dentist. People like this often don’t get their teeth cleaned regularly.
Pain, gum disease, and tooth loss can happen if you don’t go to the dentist. Also, new research shows a link between gum disease and heart disease and dying young. The exact reason isn’t clear, but it might have something to do with the long-term inflammation that comes from having gums that are swollen and infected.
Patients who need relief can relax and let the dentist work while they get sedation dentistry. It can keep people from having to deal with pain for the rest of their lives.
You can also read : Dos and don’ts when a dental emergency happens
Local sedation can help patients in the following situations :
- Fear of dentists or anxiety that can lead to panic attacks.
- A sensitive gag reflex that makes cleaning really hard, if not impossible.
- Teeth that are very sensitive and make cleanings and exams unbearably painful.
- Several procedures are planned at the same time.
What are the risks involved with sedation?
Even though most procedures are safe, there are always some risks. This is especially important when it comes to prescription drugs. Talk to your dentist about whether the pros of sedation dentistry are greater than the cons.
Here are some times when sedation dentistry is not a good idea :
- Tell your dentist that you have obstructive sleep apnea so that you can talk about the risks.
- Being overweight may raise the risk of side effects from the sedative.
- Let your dentist know if you are allergic to or sensitive to certain drugs.
- Tell your dentist that you are pregnant.
- Your dentist also needs to know if you have a medical condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a lung disease.
- There are times when sedation might not be as safe. Make sure your dentist knows everything about your health.
For your safety, the American Dental Association gives your dentist guidelines on how to keep an eye on your vital signs. Oxygen and drugs that can wake you up will be easy for your dentist to get.
Is sedation dentistry a good idea for you?
Sedation is needed in some situations, like when you need oral surgery. Sometimes, sedation dentistry is the right choice, but it depends on the specifics of the case. You can talk to your dentist if you have trouble with dental work.
Conclusion
Patients who would otherwise hate going to the dentist can choose sedation dentistry. It could mean the difference between mouth pain and good health. Talk with your dentist at Palm Tree Dental to see if it’s a good idea for you.
Palm Tree Dental can help you if you need a dentist or are still not sure what sedation dentistry is. To make an appointment for a cleaning, exam, or consultation, call Palm Tree Dental in Ingleside, TX at 361-238-4460.