If you’re a smart consumer and patient, you do your due diligence before jumping on any bandwagon. You research and you ask the right questions to get to the truth. Well, when it comes to sedation dentistry, there are multiple common questions that most people ask when considering this treatment. Asking your dentist these questions about dental sedation can help you get a better idea of whether it’s a good choice in your case.
Would Dental Sedation Help My Dental Appointments?
If you feel fear of the dentist or dental office, sedation dentistry can calm your nerves during the visit. Instead of experiencing symptoms of anxiety, you can sit back and have necessary dental work done without stress or concern.
Although many patients taking advantage of dental sedation face anxiety and fear, these are not the only reasons it could be a good idea. For instance, those who have a sensitive gag reflex or particularly sensitive teeth and gums can benefit from being sedated, giving them a more pleasant, relaxing experience in the chair.
Which Type(s) of Dental Sedation Do You Offer?
Although it varies from practice to practice, there are usually three types of dental sedation. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is inhaled through a nasal mask and kicks in within a couple of minutes. Oral conscious sedation is administered through a prescribed pill that is taken before the appointment begins. Finally, IV sedation is infused directly into the bloodstream.
Based on the discussion with your dentist, together you can determine which one would best suit your needs.
Is Dental Sedation Safe?
Generally, dental sedation is considered very safe. Nitrous oxide works gently and can be increased or decreased according to the patient. Even kids can receive it! For more severe cases or longer treatments, oral conscious or IV sedation may be more appropriate. Again, having an honest conversation with your dentist will guide them to recommending the right option for you.
Will Dental Sedation Put Me to Sleep?
No, these three common types of dental sedation do not render you unconscious. You should be able to respond to instructions. However, with IV and oral conscious sedation, you may find yourself unable to recall details from your appointment as a result of the amnesiac effect, or you may even relax to the point of falling asleep on your own.
What Are the Side Effects of Sedation?
Deeper sedation options, oral conscious sedation and IV sedation, may make your memory of the appointment fuzzy and may impair your reflexes for a while afterward. There are very few side effects of nitrous oxide sedation, but in rare situations, it may cause nausea.
Do I Need to Have Someone Drive Me Home?
The effects of nitrous oxide sedation typically fade just as quickly as they kick in, meaning you can drive and carry on with your day as normal. However, with the other two types, you will need someone to drive you home and monitor you until the effects wear off.
In the end, unless you ask the right questions, you won’t get the answers you need to make a wise decision. Before your next dental appointment, talk to your dentist and find out if sedation can make your appointments better!
About the Practice
At Pioneer Greens Dentistry, Dr. Justin Shirk, Dr. Chris Haag, and Dr. Claire Haag place patient comfort as a top priority. They offer the three types of sedation discussed above, catering to each individual’s needs. If you would like more information about sedation, or if you would like to take advantage of it at your next visit, please contact us online or call 402-483-7502.