Are dental appointments a nightmare for you? Do your anxiety levels peak as soon as you step inside the dentist’s office? If yes, then sedation dentistry could be the solution to all your fears. However, there are many myths surrounding it that may cause hesitation or confusion. In this blog post, we’ll debunk some widely-believed myths and highlight significant facts about dental sedation that everyone should know – so let’s get started!
Myth #1
Dental sedation is only for people with extreme dental anxiety.
Fact
Dental sedation can be helpful for anyone who experiences anxiety or discomfort during dental visits. It can also be used for patients who have difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia or who have sensitive teeth.
Myth #2
Dental sedation will put me to sleep.
Fact
There are different types of dental sedation, and not all of them will make you sleepy. Some types of sedation, like inhaled minimal sedation ( laughing gas), will simply help you relax. Other types, like oral conscious sedation, may make you drowsy but you’ll still be awake and able to respond to questions or instructions from your dentist. The type of sedation used will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
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What is Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation is a technique that is used to help a person relax during a dental procedure. It can be used for a variety of different procedures, including routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, and root canals. There are several different types of dental sedation available, and the type that is best for you will depend on your level of anxiety and your medical history.
King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Who Should Receive Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation is a great option for patients who have dental anxiety or who need to have extensive dental work done. Sedation dentistry can help make your treatment more comfortable and relaxed. Here are some guidelines on who should receive dental sedation:
- Patients with dental anxiety or who have had traumatic dental experiences in the past are good candidates for dental sedation.
- If you need to have a lot of dental work done, sedation can help you get through it all in one visit.
- Patients with medical conditions that make it difficult to sit still for long periods of time may also benefit from sedation during their treatment.
- If you have trouble getting numb from local anesthesia, you may want to consider dental sedation.
Preparing for Dental Sedation
If you’re considering dental sedation, there are a few things you should know in order to be prepared. First, it’s important to understand the difference between the types of dental sedation available. There are four main types of dental sedation: oral sedation, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), intravenous (IV) sedation, and general anesthesia. Depending on your level of anxiety and the type of procedure being performed, your dentist will recommend the best type of sedation for you.
Once you’ve decided on the type of sedation you’ll be receiving, there are a few things you need to do in order to prepare. If you’re taking oral sedatives, it’s important that you have someone else drive you to and from your appointment since the medication can make you drowsy. You should also avoid eating or drinking anything for at least six hours before your procedure so that the medication doesn’t make you nauseous. If you’re receiving IV sedation, it’s important that you eat a light meal beforehand so that you don’t feel dizzy or lightheaded during your procedure. And finally, if you’re going under general anesthesia, it’s essential that you follow all pre-operative instructions provided by your anesthesiologist carefully in order to avoid any complications.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your dental sedation experience is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Summary
Sedation dentistry is a safe, effective way to calm anxious patients and relieve pain during dental procedures. While there are still myths about the dangers associated with using sedation for dental work, understanding the facts can help someone who may require this type of treatment make an informed decision. Knowing that the sedatives used in dental settings are carefully administered by trained professionals and monitored at all times gives patients peace of mind when considering any type of procedure involving sedation.