Sedation Dentistry: Is It Right For Me?

Are you wondering if Sedation Dentistry is right for you? If so, it is first important to understand what it is. Sedation Dentistry is a catch all term that can be used to describe dentistry that is performed while a patient is under some type of sedative medication or combination of medications.

Nitrous Oxide is one form of Sedation Dentistry. Nitrous Oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be inhaled to produce a euphoric feeling and to alleviate or diminish pain. Under Nitrous Oxide, patients remain aware of their surroundings, however, the mild sedative helps to relax nerves and calm anxieties that may be associated with visiting the dentist. Advantages include the facts that Nitrous Oxide gas works very quickly and does not involve the use of a needle to administer. It also leaves the patients body very quickly and does not produce a “hangover effect”.  In many cases, Nitrous Oxide gas is used in combination with local numbing agents or anesthetics.

Oral Conscious Sedation is another form of Sedation Dentistry. In this case, sedative medications are given to patients orally prior to a dental procedure. The oral sedative medications produce a drowsy effect and make patients slightly less focused on their surroundings but will not put them to sleep. For this type of sedation, transportation must be arranged both to and from the dentist’s office.

Sedation Dentistry is a good option for patients with dental phobias or a fear of the dentist. It can also be a good solution for patients with severe gag reflexes, difficulty getting numb and physical or developmental disabilities that make it difficult to receive dental treatment. Lastly, it can also be used for patients who simply desire a more pleasant dental experience.

Sedation Dentistry has been used effectively for many years. However, it is not right for everyone. Only you and your dentist can decide whether or not Sedation Dentistry is right for you and if it is, which type best suits your needs. If you have questions about Sedation Dentistry, talk to your dentist today.