subject: Sedation Dentist: Help You Forget The Fear Of Visiting A Dentist [print this page] Many people the world over fear a good old check up with the dentist. While some may have had a traumatic dental experience in the past, others (including children) often find the process extremely stressful. This fear has been the cause of many individuals neglecting the need for proper dental care, thus creating larger problems over time. Though recently, an option has become available which can effective ease the worries of even the most fearful patient. This option is called sedation dentistry.
Sedation dentistry is a term that refers to the use of anesthesia as a means with which to put dental patients into a relaxed, sleep-like state. This technique is a wonderful solution for patients that exhibit dental phobias or have difficulty controlling their movements, such as children. While it is a common perception that this form of dentistry makes patients unconscious, this is typically not the case. In fact, most people are awake the entire appointment, though many remember northing.
There are various options available when considering the type of drugging. The decision will most likely depend on the exact treatment being performed and / or the level of the anxiety. Your dentist will be able to determine the best option for the given situation. The varying degrees of drugging that can be utilized, include IV drug, inhalation (nitrous oxide), and conscious drug with sedatives.
The Four Sedation Methods
-Oral Sedatives - Given to the patient the night before the procedure or 30 minutes to an hour prior to the appointment. These sedatives are not pain killers, so an injection of anesthetic is typically administered.
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation - Like oral sedatives, this form does not provide pain relief. The sedative is administered through an IV, and a local anesthetic is typically administered.
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Sedation - Patients inhale the gas which is used to produce a state a relaxation. This form is also used in combination with a local anesthetic.
- General Anesthesia - This particular method applies to the use of anesthetics to render the patient unconscious. Unlike the methods mentioned above, treatment will proceed while the individual is completely unaware of their surroundings. This makes the use of a local anesthetic unnecessary.
Now that you have a general idea of what this type of dentistry is all about, you may be able to better determine whether it is the right choice for you. Contact your local dentist and schedule a consultation in order to ask about any concerns or specific questions you may have.
by: Andrew Stratton
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