Getting a dental implant is an important investment in maintaining a healthy smile, and proper care is essential to protect it. Read on for helpful tips.
If you feel anxious about seeing the dentist, you’re not alone. Surveys estimate that 13%-24% of people experience dental anxiety. You shouldn’t avoid going to the dentist, though, and you also don’t have to just grin and bear it. Sedation dentistry provides a way to make dental care much more comfortable.
Sedation dentistry involves varying degrees of unconsciousness during your dental procedures. Most often, people are able to get dental treatment with minimal sedation, but some patients require general anesthesia. Our providers of Dental Art of South Bay explain more about sedation dentistry and why this is a safe option.
Although all levels of sedation dentistry are safe, most patients don’t require being put to sleep (also known as being under general anesthesia). Most patients find that they can get through dental visits with lower levels of sedation, which is very safe.
Sedation ranges from nitrous oxide (laughing gas), which is the least invasive, to intravenous anesthesia. You will also likely receive local anesthesia, which will numb your gums so you don’t feel any pain. The types of sedation include:
Inhalation sedation usually involves nitrous oxide breathed in through an oxygen mask, which the dentist places over your nose. This medication will make you feel very relaxed, although you’ll technically be aware during your procedure. It wears off nearly immediately once the mask is removed.
Oral sedation can range from mild to moderate, depending on the medication used and how much of it is given. Most often, we use a medication called Halcion, which is in the same category of drugs as Valium. You may fall asleep while taking this medication, though we can usually rouse you from it. You might feel a bit drowsy and groggy for a few hours as this medication wears off.
Sometimes, if you want a greater degree of sedation, you will receive a sedating medication intravenously. This method delivers the sedating drug directly into your bloodstream. It also allows the dentist to adjust the level of medication if needed.
You may be wondering whether you can safely be sedated to get your dental work. The answer is yes. Dr. Samet has substantial experience administering sedative medications and knows how to do so safely.
It’s also important to recognize that you’re not being put under general anesthesia, which has more risks. Sedation dentistry, regardless of the method used, is inherently less risky than general anesthesia.
If you have any anxiety about seeing the dentist, you should consider the option of sedation dentistry. Dental anxiety can keep you from making dental appointments for needed care, and failure to do so can lead to greater problems down the road.
Whether you have fears related to past traumatic experiences, need major dental work that you fear may be painful, or have highly sensitive teeth, you don’t need to explain the source of your anxiety to anyone. Dental sedation can make dental care much more comfortable for you.
If you would like to make an appointment for dental care or inquire about sedation dentistry, we would love to talk with you. Call our office today to request an appointment.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Getting a dental implant is an important investment in maintaining a healthy smile, and proper care is essential to protect it. Read on for helpful tips.
When you decide to treat your teeth with the Invisalign system, you may wonder if you can skip days. Learn the truth about Invisalign use.
You may think your young child can’t possibly be old enough for orthodontic treatment, but that may not be the case. Learn more about when your child should get an orthodontic exam here.
You may think dental cleanings are no big deal. But here’s why it’s important to keep dental cleanings in your calendar.
If you or your partner snore, you may feel tempted to ignore it. But if the cause is sleep apnea, there can be serious consequences. Learn more about this condition and how to get diagnosed.
Teeth whitening can dramatically transform your smile, but you may wonder if it’s safe. Learn the facts about teeth whitening here.