Sedation in Dentistry
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation Dentistry is a safe and effective method of calming patients prior to and during dental procedures. It can be used for a wide variety of dental procedures and treatments, including dental restorations, wisdom teeth extractions, and more. It creates a long period of amnesia, so you will not remember the procedure when you wake up. It can also allow you to cooperate for longer periods of time, so your dentist can perform multiple procedures in one appointment.
The type of sedation your dentist uses will depend on your individual needs and medical history. Your dentist will explain your options and recommend the best sedation method for you. It is important to follow his or her explicit instructions and alert your doctor to any changes in your health before your appointment. You should also arrange for transportation after a procedure that requires oral or IV sedation. These medications can take several hours to wear off, so you should have someone available to drive you home and monitor your behavior for a few hours.
Minimal sedation is usually achieved by inhaling nitrous oxide through a small mask that fits over your nose. Nitrous oxide is a colorless and odorless gas that works quickly to make you feel relaxed. It is highly effective and can be re-dosed as needed during your treatment. It is a popular choice for adults who are afraid of the dental office and children who are nervous about their dental work.
Oral sedation can be administered as pills or liquids and is more powerful than nitrous oxide. The dentist can give you a pill such as Halcion (triazolam) that is in the same family of medications as Valium, or a liquid medication such as Dilaudid (hydromorphone). Both have a very rapid onset and will make you drowsy. The dentist will be able to monitor your levels of drowsiness and can rapidly increase the dosage if necessary.
If you are interested in sedation for your next visit, please contact our office to schedule an initial consultation. A member of our staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you determine which sedation option is right for you.
Anxiety about a dental procedure can be debilitating and stop you from getting the care you need for your mouth and overall health. We understand that fear is a common problem for many people, and we want to help you overcome it and get the dental care you deserve. Please call our office in Downey today to see how sedation dentistry can help you feel comfortable and confident with your next visit. We look forward to hearing from you!