Do you fear thinking of visiting a dentist? Instead of seeing a dentist’s office, are you ready to endure the toothache? Then you’ve not alone!
A lot of people prefer not to go to a dentist and stay at home without treatment. Sedation dentistry is the best way to take away some anxiety for these people. IT could be an invasive procedure or just a simple tooth cleaning; your doctor will sedate you and perform the procedure. How much you require depends on the severity of your fear.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
A doctor will use sedation dentistry to help you stay calm during a dental procedure. Although it isn’t the correct term, some people call it to sleep dentistry. Except for those who are under general anesthesia, most patients who receive sedation are awake.
What Are The Different Levels of Sedation?
- Basic level of sedation – the patient is awake and relaxed.
- Mid-level sedation (also known as conscious sedation) – the patient will be awake but will not remember the procedure.
- Complete sedation – the patient is in an unconscious state but can easily wake up after the procedure.
- General anesthesia – that is when the patient is completely unconscious.
What Are The Different Types of Sedation Used By Dentists?
- Sedate By Inhalation: The dentist places a mask on your nose, and you breathe in nitrous oxide combined with oxygen, which helps you relax. The dentist can control the level of your sedation, and it can quickly wear off too. This is the only case where you are in control enough to drive back home after the procedure.
- Sedation By Oral Means: The most minimal oral sedation level is when the dentist gives you a pill. This pill contains Halcion, which is from the same drug family as Valium. You are to consume the pill about 60 minutes before the procedure. The pill is to be taken about an hour before the procedure, and by the time you are on the dentist’s bed for the procedure, you will feel drowsy.
- IV Sedation: This is when you’re given the sedative drug into your vein. The result is it works quickly and also allows the dentist to adjust the level of sedation continually.
- General Anesthesia: You will be unconscious or deep asleep during the procedure. You can only wake up when the effects of the anesthesia wear off or the doctor reverses them with medication.
Suppose you fear your next visit to the dentist, fear not! We are here to help. At Smile Time Dental, we offer sedated dentistry services. Call us at 281 245-0711 to schedule a consultation.