sedation dentistry Benefits patients with sensitive gag reflex or special needs

What is dental sedation?

There are two main types of dental sedation: oral conscious sedation and IV sedation.

Oral conscious sedation is the most common type of dental sedation. It is taken orally before the procedure begins. The patient is able to respond to the dentist, such as raising a hand or responding to questions, but is in a deeply relaxed state.

Who needs sedation dentistry?

Patients who have special needs or a sensitive gag reflex often benefit the most from sedation dentistry. A sensitive gag reflex can create problems in the dental chair, such as choking, gagging, or breathing through the mouth.

Types of sedation in use today

Oral sedation is one of the most common types of sedation used in dental office.

Oral sedation involves taking a sedative pill before your appointment. This medication helps patients relax. Patients can take the medication at home, so it’s already in their system when they visit the dentist.

Oral sedation can be used in combination with nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is administered through a mask, and the effects are felt quickly.

Oral sedation also helps sedate patients for procedures that don’t require localized numbing, such as cosmetic work.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Although sedation dentistry is considered a safe practice, it’s important to discuss your health history, current medications, and known allergies with your dental practitioner prior to treatment. Sedation dentistry is also performed on an outpatient basis in a certified office, under the care of a trained dental team.

Is sedation dentistry right for me?

Not every patient is a good candidate for sedation dentistry. Only patients with dental anxiety or special needs are candidates for sedation. Patients who are undergoing procedures that involve pain, such as tooth extraction, can benefit from sedation dentistry. Patients who have special needs, such as developmental or physical disabilities, or elderly patients whose health is compromised, can benefit from sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry involves the use of oral medication, nitrous oxide, or intravenous drugs. Oral sedation involves the use of pills taken before the dental procedure. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a gas that is sprayed or breathed in through a mask. IV sedation involves the use of intravenous drugs, which are given intravenously and take effect quickly.

Where can I get sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is available at any dental practice. There are a variety of sedation methods available. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a mild sedative that is inhaled through the nose. It produces mild euphoria and is quickly reversed when the gas is stopped. Oral sedation is a pill taken to fall asleep. Patients may not remember much of what happened during their procedure.

How much does sedation dentistry cost?

Dental sedation is typically offered as a complimentary service. Patients who elect to have sedation during their dental visit are asked to pay a separate fee. This fee is to ensure that patients who need sedation can rest easy knowing that their sedation will be administered by a trained and certified dental professional.