Have you ever heard of dental sedation? Dental sedation is a type of medication that is used to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is also sometimes called “sleep dentistry” because it can make patients feel like they are sleeping through the procedure.
If you have ever been to the dentist, you know that some dental procedures can be quite uncomfortable or even painful. This is especially true for procedures like fillings, extractions, and root canals. Dental sedation can help ease these discomfort and make the procedure much more tolerable for patients.
In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about dental sedation. We will discuss what it is, how it works, who is a good candidate for it, and what the risks and benefits are.
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What is Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation is a type of medication that is used to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is usually a pill that is taken orally, but it can also be given through an IV. The type of sedation that you will receive will depend on the procedure that you are having and your own personal medical history.
The most common type of dental sedation is called “nitrous oxide” or “laughing gas.” This is a gas that you breathe in through a mask during the procedure. It helps you to relax and feel less anxious. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, so you will be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.
Oral sedation is another type of dental sedation. This is a pill that you take before the procedure. It is usually a type of anti-anxiety medication, such as Valium or Ativan. The pills help you to relax and feel drowsy. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure because the effects of the medication can last for several hours.
IV sedation is the strongest type of dental sedation. It is given through a small IV in your arm. You will be closely monitored by the dentist or anesthesiologist during the procedure. The effects of IV sedation can last for several hours, so you will need someone to drive you home afterward.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation can be used for a variety of different dental procedures. It is often used for procedures that are known to be painful, such as fillings, extractions, and root canals. It can also be used for patients who have a fear of the dentist or who have had a bad experience in the past.
Dental sedation can also be used for patients who have a hard time getting numb. This is common in patients with diabetes or other medical conditions that cause nerve damage. Dental sedation can help these patients to relax and make it easier for the dentist to numb them.
What are the Risks and Benefits of Dental Sedation?
As with any medication, there are some risks associated with dental sedation. The most common side effects are nausea and vomiting. This is more likely to occur with IV sedation than with nitrous oxide or oral sedation. There is also a small risk of an allergic reaction, especially with IV sedation.
The benefits of dental sedation outweigh the risks for most patients. Dental sedation can help you to relax and make it easier for the dentist to numb you. It can also help you to feel more comfortable during the procedure.
When do Dentists Use Dental Sedation?
Dentists use dental sedation for a variety of different procedures. It is often used for procedures that are known to be painful, such as fillings, extractions, and root canals. It can also be used for patients who have a fear of the dentist or who have had a bad experience in the past.
Dental sedation can also be used for patients who have a hard time getting numb. This is common in patients with diabetes or other medical conditions that cause nerve damage. Dental sedation can help these patients to relax and make it easier for the dentist to numb them.
Where Can I Get Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation is available at most dental offices. Your dentist will be able to tell you if they offer dental sedation and what types are available. Nitrous oxide and oral sedation are usually available at all dental offices. IV sedation may be available at some offices, but it is more likely to be found at larger dental practices or hospitals.