For some people, a trip to the dentist comes with more than a little nervousness. Dental anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, or simply feeling uncomfortable during treatment can make necessary care feel overwhelming. Fortunately, sedation dentistry can help make certain dental procedures easier and more comfortable.
If you’ve never experienced dental sedation before, you probably have a few questions. Let’s take a look at some of the most common ones.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable during dental treatment. Depending on the type of sedation used, you may remain fully awake and able to communicate, or you may become very drowsy.
Sedation isn’t necessarily the same thing as general anesthesia. In many cases, the goal is simply to help you feel calm while your dental team performs the necessary treatment.
What Types of Sedation Are Available?
There are several levels and methods of sedation. One common option is nitrous oxide, sometimes called laughing gas. It’s inhaled through a small mask and can help you feel relaxed during treatment. Its effects generally wear off relatively quickly after the mask is removed.
Oral sedation involves taking prescribed medication before or around the time of your appointment. Depending on the medication and dose, it can produce a deeper level of relaxation and may make you feel sleepy.
Intravenous, or IV, sedation delivers medication through a vein and allows the dental team to adjust the level of sedation as needed. The appropriate option depends on your procedure, medical history, anxiety level, and individual needs.
Who Can Benefit From Sedation?
Sedation may be helpful for patients who experience dental anxiety or fear, have a strong gag reflex, have difficulty sitting still for extended periods, or need extensive dental treatment.
It may also be considered for patients who have had unpleasant dental experiences in the past. However, sedation isn’t automatically appropriate for everyone. Your dental professional will review your health history, medications, and other factors before recommending a specific approach.
What Are the Benefits?
The biggest benefit of sedation is helping patients feel more relaxed during dental treatment. It may also make it easier for your dental team to complete necessary procedures when anxiety or a sensitive gag reflex would otherwise make treatment difficult.
For some patients, sedation can also make it easier to receive care they’ve been putting off. Addressing dental concerns sooner can help prevent small problems from becoming more complicated.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Sedation is considered safe when the appropriate method is selected and administered by trained professionals. Your dental team will review your medical history and provide instructions to follow before and after treatment.
Depending on the type of sedation you receive, you may need someone to drive you home and stay with you while the effects wear off. Always follow your dental team’s specific instructions.
Is Sedation Right for You?
If anxiety or another concern has kept you from getting the dental care you need, sedation may be worth discussing. Your dental professional can explain your options, answer questions, and determine whether sedation is appropriate for your situation.
Feeling nervous about dental treatment doesn’t mean you have to avoid taking care of your smile.
About the Practice
Dr. Sheng Ji provides specialized oral and maxillofacial surgical care, including sedation dentistry for patients who may benefit from additional comfort and relaxation during treatment. The practice offers individualized care and evaluates each patient’s needs to determine the appropriate sedation approach for their procedure.
Call us at (916) 961-1902 or schedule your appointment online