Sedation Dentistry FAQ: Is It Safe for Anxious Patients?

Does your heart race, and do you feel anxious about the idea of sitting in a dental chair? You aren’t alone. Patients of all ages experience dental anxiety, often resulting in skipped appointments and delayed treatments. The problem is that when minor dental issues aren’t treated, they can eventually develop into more severe issues in the future.

One thing to consider is finding a sedation dentist near me. Modern solutions are available to help you feel more relaxed in the dental chair, so that you can receive the treatment that you need and manage your stress at the same time.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

The term “sedation dentistry” actually refers to a few different options that are available to help patients feel more relaxed during their dental treatments. Keep in mind that sedation dentistry is different from general anesthesia. If you are in a surgical center and need general anesthesia, then it means that you will be asleep during the whole treatment. On the other hand, dental sedation uses treatments that keep you awake while helping you feel more relaxed while in the dental chair.

Dental sedation can be used for patients of all ages and everything from routine cleanings to more complex oral surgery treatments. For example, children or patients with special needs sometimes need sedation dentistry if they are unable to sit still in the chair for checkups or minor treatments such as fillings. Patients who need more extensive treatments might also benefit from sedation dentistry.

We recommend calling a sedation dentist near me if you experience any of these things:

• Dental phobia
• A sensitive gag reflex
• Difficulty sitting still
• A low pain threshold

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry

These are some of the most common options available if you choose sedation dentistry:

• Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide): This gas is inhaled through a small mask. Nitrous oxide is a safe sedation method that works quickly and has mild effects. When the appointment is over, the laughing gas wears off quickly, which allows you to drive yourself home if necessary.
• Oral Sedation: With this method, you have a pill that you take at home before the appointment. The medication has a relaxing effect so that you feel lower levels of stress during the appointment. If you choose oral sedation, then you will need to have someone drive you home after the appointment.
• IV Sedation: This next option is to have medication that is delivered into the bloodstream through an IV. The benefits of this method are that it creates deep, conscious sedation. This type of sedation dentistry is most commonly recommended for patients who need more complex procedures.
• Local Anesthesia: These numbing shots can be used alone for patients who don’t need sedation dentistry. Or, local anesthesia can be combined with sedation so that the treatment area is numb and you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is considered safe for most healthy adults, as long as the treatment is administered by a trained provider. For example, if a dentist in Texas is offering dental sedation, then they must meet specific licensing and training requirements.

During the appointment, your vital signs will be monitored continuously. If you have any health conditions or are currently taking any medications, then this information should be discussed with your dentist before the appointment.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation?

If you are considering dental sedation, then talk to our team about your health history. We’ll review your medical records and help you determine whether sedation dentistry is right for you. This treatment is often a great fit for patients who can relate to any of the following:

• Anxious patients who need a little more support during their appointments.
• Patients who had traumatic dental experiences in the past.
• When multiple treatments are being completed during the same visit.
• If you have a strong gag reflex.
• Patients who have a hard time getting numb using local anesthesia.
• Children with hyperactivity or anxiety.
• Patients with special needs.

Preparing for Your First Sedation Appointment

Since you will likely feel groggy after the appointment, you need to arrange to have someone who can drive you home. Also, follow all pre-procedure recommendations from our office staff, such as following fasting instructions. Most patients shouldn’t eat or drink anything for a few hours before oral sedation.

You’ll want to wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing to the appointment. Follow all aftercare instructions when you go home after the treatment.

FAQ

Is sedation dentistry the same as being put to sleep?

No, most forms of dental sedation will keep the patient awake enough to respond to the dentist. General anesthesia is usually not necessary for dental treatments.

Will I feel any pain during a sedated procedure?

You shouldn’t feel any pain during the treatment. In addition to sedation for relaxation, we also use local anesthesia to numb the treatment area.

How long does oral sedation last?

Most patients feel the relaxing effects of oral sedation for a few hours, so you will need someone to drive you home after the appointment. You’ll want to take it easy…don’t schedule anything else for the rest of the day.

Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?

Insurance coverage depends on your dental coverage plan and the procedure that you are receiving. Sometimes, insurance companies will cover sedation for surgical care, but patients need to pay out-of-pocket for routine dental care. If you have questions about your coverage, talk to our office staff at myDental for more information.

Anxiety-Free Dentistry, Customized for Your Needs

Are you wondering if Sedation Dentistry is right for you? The best way to choose your treatment plan is by consulting with our experienced team at myDental. We offer customized solutions for patients of all ages. Our goal is to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible every step of the way.

For more information about available services or to book an appointment at one of our convenient locations, call us at your convenience. Our staff at myDental is always here to help.