Sedation dentistry can make dental operations less intimidating by using gentle doses of sedation, allowing patients to remain awake and at ease. Due to its brief-term amnesia result, sedation dentistry is often called “twilight sleep” or conscious dentistry that sedates patients and permits them to have less sensitivity to pain without losing awareness.
As long as a licensed dentist administers it, sedation dentistry is safe. Patients can rely on their dentist to monitor physical symptoms and alter the sedation dosage.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can be described as a dental method that dentists employ to aid patients in relaxing during dental procedures. The procedure involves sedatives that help calm patients’ nerves and ease pain and discomfort. Sedation dentistry is ideal for those suffering from dental fear or anxiety, people with a low threshold for pain, or those undergoing effective dental procedures.
What Procedures Can You Use It For?
Sedation dentistry can be utilized for almost any procedure in the dental field. It is also used for patients with special needs or requiring multiple procedures in one sitting; click here for more information.
What Types Are There?
Three types to help you know what type do you need:
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is inhaled, colorless, odorless, gives mild sedation, and relaxes patients during procedures.
Oral sedation
It is usually an oral or liquid medication to make you feel relaxed and tired before the procedure. The sedation level can be adjusted according to each patient’s specific needs.
IV Sedation
It is administered through an intravenous line, and the patient remains conscious but is highly relaxed. IV sedation is generally reserved for more complicated procedures or patients with severe dental anxiety.
Which Is Harmless?
The three forms of sedation dentistry are safe and effective when administered by a qualified professional. Nitrous oxide is the most reliable since it can wear off quickly, and patients can return to regular activities immediately. Injecting and oral sedation are safe but require more monitoring before and after the procedure.
Are There Side Effects?
Like any other medical procedure, sedation can have potential adverse effects. However, the risks are generally minimal when performed by trained professionals. Common side effects of dental procedures may include drowsiness, nausea, and headaches which will generally resolve themselves shortly after the conclusion of the procedure.
When Is Each Type Used?
Nitrous oxide is a great option to ease mild dental anxiety or assist patients in relaxing during routine dental visits. However, oral and IV sedation could be more suitable for complicated procedures, such as dental extractions and root canals. IV sedation should only be considered for extensive dental work or severe anxiety problems. Some cosmetic dentistry that offers cosmetic veneers is also using sedation dentistry.
Is It Expensive?
The price is based on the sedative selected and the length of the procedure. Dental conscious sedation within the US costs $250 to the hour at $500. A moderate to deep level of sedation is achieved through IV dental sedation, which can cost between $500 to $900. Nitrous oxide gas and light sedation typically cost between $200 to $300.
The cost of sedation dental treatment does not include the cost of the actual procedure. Patients should consult their dentist to inquire whether their dental insurance covers dental sedation.
Conclusion
Patients who experience fear or fear of going to the dentist will benefit greatly from sedation dentistry. It is safe and effective and can aid in all dental procedures. Sedation makes you feel more relaxed during dental procedures to enhance the dental health and quality of life.
