Sedation dentistry refers to a type of dentistry that involves the administration of sedatives through an intravenous route, normally to facilitate a clinical dental procedure and minimize patients’ stress associated with the oral experience. Sedation dentists use different methods to induce deep sedation in their patients. This procedure has proved to be extremely advantageous as it reduces the fear of pain during dental procedures. Dentists are able to reduce patients’ discomfort and pain by employing simple methods of dental procedures. Sedation dentistry can be used to reduce fear and anxieties relating to pain during dental procedures. While dental procedures can be very painful, patients are usually sedated using low dose oral sedation medications and then monitored closely for signs of improvement.
Sedation dentists are licensed and trained to administer the various types of oral sedation used. The American Dental Association offers many services to assist qualified dentists to provide high-quality sedation dentistry. To receive treatment from a dentist who is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA) ‘s Board of Certification, one must achieve a certain level of training and expertise in this field. In order to become a member of the ADA, one must satisfactorily complete a three-year degree from an accredited dental school of medicine.
Certified sedation dentists will be able to treat dental phobia and anxiety with ease. Many people suffering from fear of dental treatment may exhibit a range of symptoms such as; blushing, increased heart rate, sweating, fear of death or going crazy, uncontrollable shaking, dry mouth, difficulty sleeping, and feeling foggy-headed. Each person will respond differently to various treatments, so if you or someone you know exhibits some or all of these symptoms it is important to seek treatment.
Sedation dentistry uses a combination of local and general anesthesia to give patients the comfort and confidence they need to have comfortable dental procedures performed while they are relaxed and awake. General anesthesia is administered by doctors or dentists using an anesthetic spray. The spray is injected directly into the patient’s mouth, where the procedure is to take place. General anesthesia can cause side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, slurred speech, and disorientation. Local anesthesia is given by dentists or trained assistants using nitrous oxide, which is also a type of general anesthetic.
General anesthesia and local anesthetic medications are combining to provide the best experience for both the dentist and the patient. Nitrous oxide is combined with other sedatives to provide the highest dosage of comfort while still maintaining the highest level of safety. Sedation dentistry can be administered by dentists or by trained assistants. In the event that sedation dentistry becomes necessary, you should seek out the services of an experienced anesthesiologist.
Some people are so fearful of having a procedure done that they will skip a procedure altogether in order to avoid fear. These people do not realize that their fears are unfounded and are acting out of fear and anxiety. Fear of the procedure is the number one reason why patients will avoid going to the dentist. If you are afraid of having a procedure done or just want a routine maintenance procedure done then talk to your dentist about the sedation dentistry option. They will help you understand how this option will benefit you and your overall dental health.
What You Should Know About Nitrous Oxide Sedation Dentistry