Sedation dentistry provides patients with dental phobias the opportunity to undergo dental procedures while fully relaxed. Most people hate going to the dentist. Their aversion sometimes has little to do with an actual experience they’ve had. The fear can be a reflection of natural anxiety or inhibition toward dental procedures. Sedation dentistry is a technique that specifically addresses this concern. By administering a blend of sedatives and pain relievers, a dentist can offer patients a worry-free experience that leads to a beautiful smile.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
You can administer sedatives in a number of ways – these include orally, intravenously, or through inhalation. Oral sedatives are usually in the form of pills and are often given to patients who exhibit very little anxiety. Patients are given the pills up to two hours before the procedure is performed. While they do have a sedative effect, it’s often minimal. On the other hand, those who have intense anxiety about dental procedures should take advantage of intravenous sedation.
Administered through an injection, intravenous sedations’ effect is immediate. Patients rarely have a memory of the entire procedure. Another common form of sedative is Nitrous oxide. However, calling it a true sedative is somewhat a misnomer. In truth, Nitrous oxide only provides patients with a tingling feeling as well as a general sense of well-being.
Why You Should Opt for Sedation Dentistry
Millions of dental patients avoid paying their dentist a visit. They also keep away from having a number of essential procedures performed. Intravenous sedation eliminates this fear. Patients can always visit a dentist and have different procedures completed without enduring any pain or discomfort.
Some people also have a gag reflex when dentists perform work in their mouths. Sedation helps these patients to completely relax and not be affected by the reflex. Some patients want to have elective cosmetic dental work done, and have been thinking about it for years, but they fear the length of appointments and the pain involved. They can benefit from being sedated intravenously and wake up with a new smile!