subject: Sedation Dentistry Calms Even The Most Anxious Patients [print this page] Does even the thought of going to the dentist make you nervous? Do you avoid going even when you are experiencing pain? Some estimate that up to 20 percent of the population of the United States is afraid of visiting the dentist. Not seeing your dentist for an extended period of time can have serious consequences for your dental health. Tooth decay, gum disease and more serious problems can develop without professional cleanings from your dentist. Luckily for people suffering from dental anxiety, many dentists offer their patients sedation dentistry techniques to help them relax during dental procedures.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is the simplest form of sedation dentistry for the patient. If you want to be sedated during your dental procedure, let your dentist know. He or she will be able to prescribe a pill that you can take before the process begins. Because you will be sedated, you will need a companion to drive you to and from the office. Once the pill takes effect, your body will feel completely relaxed and any anxiety you had about visiting the dentist will dissipate. Unlike general anesthesia, you will never completely lose consciousness. This will benefit your dentist because you will be able to respond to commands and listen to instructions. Although you are awake through the whole process, many patients report that the entire process goes by very quickly and often they cannot remember the procedure.
Nitrous Oxide
Another popular method for sedation among dentists is the use of nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is an odorless and colorless gas that distracts patients from pain and allows for you to be totally relaxed during a dental procedure. Since the 1800s, dentists have been using nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas", to help relax patients during dental exams and procedures. Administered through a small mask, you may feel slightly giddy during the procedure. However, any anxiety you were feeling before the procedure will go away.
IV sedation
Another way that dentists can sedate their patients is through intravenous (IV) sedation. In this method, your dentist will deliver sedation medicine directly into your bloodstream by inserting a small needle into either the top of your hand or in your inner elbow. IV sedation is the quickest method in terms of feeling results because the medicine is inserted directly into your bloodstream. However, many people are afraid of needles and for this reason, IV sedation may not work for them. Like other forms of sedation, you will need to bring someone along to drive you to and from the office; you should not drive for approximately 24 hours after your procedure.
To learn more about sedation dentistry or to schedule an appointment, contact your Maple Grove dentist today.
