Dental sedation may be an option if you are afraid of going to the dentist. In this post, our Marine Dental Clinic team discusses dental sedation and how it feels.
What is dental sedation?
Dental sedation uses medication, usually taken orally or inhaled, to help patients relax during dental appointments. There are normally three different types of sedation: oral, nitrous oxide, and IV. At Marine Dental Clinic, we, unfortunately, do not offer sedation. We do, however, feel it necessary to enlighten all our patients on as many aspects of dentistry as possible.
Patients who are extremely nervous about dental procedures, require complex treatment, or have a severe gag reflex may benefit from sedation. Before recommending sedation, your dentist will review your medical history to ensure that you are in good enough health to be sedated.
What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a gas that can be inhaled to help relieve stress and anxiety. Because everyone is different, the gas levels can be easily adjusted throughout your appointment to meet your needs.
What is oral sedation?
Oral sedatives are available as liquids or pills. These medications can be taken the night before an appointment to help you sleep better, or one hour before to help you relax before and during treatment.
What is IV sedation?
Intravenous sedation, also known as monitored anesthesia care or "twilight sleep," is a type of anesthesia that helps a patient relax by inserting an intravenous (IV) catheter into a vein. With the exception of those under general anesthesia, patients are usually awake during the procedure.
How does it feel to be under sedation?
Dental sedation is a method of reducing anxiety and pain associated with dental procedures. You will be conscious and able to communicate with your dentist and respond to instructions throughout your treatment, regardless of how tired you are. If you do fall asleep, a gentle shake should awaken you.
With conscious oral sedation, typically, patients have little recollection of the procedure. After being sedated with oral sedation, many patients report having a conscious dream. Oral sedation usually allows for a faster recovery than general anesthesia.
Our team will monitor you during your treatment to ensure your safety at all times.
Can I drive myself home after having dental sedation?
A trusted friend or family member should drive you to and from your sedation appointment. Although sedation is only temporary, you may be drowsy enough to drive. Because oral sedation can take several hours to leave your system, consult with your dentist about when you can resume driving.
Don't let dental phobias or anxiety prevent you from receiving the necessary care. By determining whether you are a candidate for dental sedation, our dentists can help you decide whether to use IV or oral sedation for your procedure. Remember that oral sedation should work similarly to nitrous oxide.