subject: Relax At The Dentist With Sedation Dentistry [print this page] Are you afraid to visit your dentist? Many people avoid going to the dentist for years at a time simply because they are uncomfortable. Unfortunately, neglecting your dental health in this way can be very harmful and lead to serious problems. Luckily for people who fear the dentist, many dentists are using the practice of sedation dentistry to fully relax even the most anxious patients. If you fear the dentist, a little bit of communication can go a long way towards making you feel more comfortable. If your dentist is aware of your fear, he or she will be able to use sedation dentistry to make you feel more relaxed than you possibly thought you could at the dentist.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation medication works by slowing the central nervous system. This way, you remain conscious and aware of your surroundings, but are less responsive to external stimuli, including pain. If you feel like you need sedation to be able to go to the dentist, talk to your dentist and he or she will be able to prescribe a medication for you to take. Usually you will take a pill before your appointment so you are fully relaxed when you come into the office. Because it is not safe to drive on the medication, you will need to have someone drive you to and from the dentist's office.
Once you arrive at the office, your dentist will assess your sedation level and make sure you are fully comfortable before he or she starts the dental procedure. While the dentist is working on you, you will feel completely relaxed and comfortable. Unlike general anesthesia, however, you will be conscious during the procedure so you will be able to respond to questions and commands from your dentist. Once the procedure is over, you will need your companion to take you home, where you will relax for the rest of the day.
Oral Sedation: The Easiest Way To Relax
There are a few different ways that patients can undergo sedation. In hospitals, patients are administered general anesthesia before surgeries. Dentists generally do not use this method because of both cost and practicality. If a patient is unconscious, it is more difficult to perform many dental procedures. Some patients are also administered sedation through an IV. This can be effective for sedating a patient, but many people would rather not have a needle in their arm. Oral sedation is by far the simplest method available. To achieve sedation, you take a small pill shortly before coming to your dentist's office and by the time you arrive, you will feel totally relaxed. Many times when the procedure is over, you will barely even remember you were at the dentist.
To learn more about oral sedation procedures, contact your Las Cruces dentist today.
