Are you someone who experiences anxiety, stress, or fear when going to the dentist? Millions of Americans avoid dental care due to dental phobia. As a result, their oral health condition declines, and they suffer from various dental problems. Fortunately, with the advancements in modern dentistry, sedation dentistry is now available to address the needs of anxious patients. Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Keep reading to learn more about this helpful and practical solution for dental phobia.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
In sedation dentistry, there are three types of sedatives used – Nitrous oxide or “laughing gas,” oral sedation, and IV sedation. Nitrous oxide is the most common type of sedation used in dentistry because it is safe, effective, and has minimal side effects. Oral sedation involves taking a pill before the procedure to help patients relax, while IV sedation involves administering the drug through the vein, which results in a deeper sedation level. A professional dentist will determine the most suitable type of sedation for their patients depending on factors like the patient’s age, medical history, and the extent of the dental service procedure.
Will I be fully unconscious?
Contrary to what most people think, sedation dentistry does not involve general anesthesia, which puts patients to sleep. Patients are conscious during the treatment and can respond to questions from the dentist. The purpose of sedation is to help patients relax and experience minimal discomfort, whether physical or emotional.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
The primary benefit of sedation dentistry is the reduced level of anxiety and fear during dental procedures. With sedatives, patients will feel calm, relaxed, and at ease. Patients are less likely to experience gag reflex, which can be triggered during certain procedures. Additionally, since sedation allows for fewer breaks and movements, dental work is completed more quickly and efficiently. This helps minimize the number of dental appointments required, which is a time and money-saving benefit.
Is Sedation Dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is entirely safe and effective when administered by a professional and well-trained dentist. Dentists’ qualifications to administer sedation are governed and reviewed by state dental boards, the ADA, and the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. At our dental clinic in Colorado Springs, Colorado, we have highly qualified dentists with extensive training and certification of sedation dentistry.
Sedation dentistry provides patients with an incredible option to help overcome their dental phobia, anxiety, or fear. With this option, patients can sit back, relax, and let the highly trained professionals take care of their oral health needs. If you’re looking for a dentist in Colorado Springs, Colorado that specializes in sedation dentistry, consider us! Our dedicated team of professionals at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is here to help you achieve the healthy smile you deserve. Schedule an appointment today and experience the comfort and convenience of sedation dentistry.
