How Sedation Dentistry Works?

How Sedation Dentistry Works?

May 01, 2021

Sedation dentistry has become quite common over the past few years, and the various styles of dental sedation available today have made it easier for people to overcome dental anxiety and fix their dental problems.

Langley sedation dentistry involves administering sedative drugs to reduce anxiety before dental procedures using medicine to reduce discomfort and anxiety among those who fear the dentist.

How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?

Different methods are used for dental sedation, each with its purpose and strength. The dentist will choose the most appropriate for your situation, which will be based on certain factors such as:

  • The dental procedure being performed
  • The duration of the dental procedure
  • Patient’s level of anxiety.

Dentists in Langley may choose any one of the following types of sedation:

Minimal sedation, in which patients are awake but in a relaxed state

Moderate sedation, in which patients are conscious but may experience slurring of speech and slight memory loss

Deep sedation, in which patients are on the verge of unconsciousness but can still communicate

General anesthesia, in which patients are completely unconscious With all types of conscious sedation, the sedative is used alongside standard anesthetics which numb the mouth and make the procedure pain-free.

Who Needs Sedation Dentistry?

Patients who consider sedation dentistry often have different reasons for their choices, which could include one of the following:

  • Phobia related to dental procedures
  • Previous bad experiences with a dental procedure
  • Susceptible oral nerves
  • Smallmouth that becomes sore during dental work
  • Resistance to local anesthetic
  • General anxiety disorder

Consider asking your dentist about sedation dentistry if you recognize yourself in any of those problem areas. Dental sedation can help patients get through many types of dental work, such as root canals, tooth extractions, dental implantation, etc.

Types Of Dental Sedation

Nitrous Oxide

It is the most common form of sedation used for dental visits. It is also known as “laughing gas.” Nitrous oxide is a low-risk treatment and provided in most dental offices. Dentists often administer nitrous oxide and local anesthesia during tooth extractions or fillings to reduce discomfort.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation refers to swallowing a sedative in either pill or liquid form. This could be combined with nitrous oxide. You would still be awake, but it may be heavier sedation than solely using nitrous oxide.

Intravenous IV) Sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation is another standard treatment method delivered directly to the bloodstream through a needle. IV sedation takes effect quickly, and the advantage is that the dentist can control the dose. The dentist may recommend IV sedation for lengthy procedures like oral surgery rather than routine dental procedures.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is a deeper level of sedation used during surgical procedures such as wisdom teeth extraction or jaw surgery. Like IV sedation, it is delivered directly to the bloodstream through a needle or inhaled. Your dentist or oral surgeon will walk you through the process: you may need to fast before the procedure and recover from the anesthesia before going home. Further, the surgical team will monitor your heart rate and blood pressure throughout the process to ensure your safety.

Is Dental Sedation Safe?

Nervous as you may be about your dental treatment, you might also be worried about the safety of sedation dentistry. Fortunately, there are minimal risks involved with the dental sedation methods described here, and your dentist will take several precautions to keep you safe during sedation. You’ll be asked about any medications you’re taking, and you may be advised to stop taking them for a certain time before your treatment. You will be monitored during your treatment if your breathing slows and you need oxygen.

Dental sedation is not safe for pregnant women, and breastfeeding should be avoided for 12 hours after sedation.

Safe sedation dentistry for any dental procedure you need is guaranteed when you see our dentists in Langley.