Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is another method of dentistry which allows dental patients who would otherwise be too frightened or anxious to have dental treatment performed while they are under some form of sedation. Sedation dentistry involves sedation through inhalation of drugs or IVs or oral methods for those who fear needles.

Under sedation dentistry patients are administered either anti-depressants, tranquilisers or anti-anxiety medication or nitrous oxide to help calm them or put them to sleep while much needed dental procedures are carried out. These sedatives are given to the patients in a variety of ways. Sedation dentists are trained to provide such drugs to their patients.

It has been found that about 30 percent of the general population avoids dentists due to fear. Some suffer an extreme version of it called dental phobia. Many people go through life avoiding dentists and silently suffering potentially compromising dental health conditions. In such cases sedative dentistry can offer a safer, relaxing and anxiety free dental experiences.

When patients undergo dental procedures under sedation dentistry it is almost like they never had any dental treatment at all. Most patients feel like they have slept through the procedure. Actually, patients under oral sedation actually have certain level of consciousness so they can cooperate in the procedures and also for patient safety.

In addition to sedation you will be given some anaesthesia to raise pain tolerance when painful dental procedures are performed. Sedation dentistry in itself rarely uses anaesthetic drugs.

An important thing to remember is to have somebody responsible accompanying you when you opt for sedation dentistry. If you are taking oral sedation drugs before the procedure then your companion should drive you to the dental clinic, they should also be available to while you are under sedation and few hours after the procedure and drive you back home. He or she may need to stay with you at home until the effects of the drugs have worn off. Ask you dentist for more details on this. Remember it is dangerous to drive while under the influence of sedation drugs.

Also, dental insurance does not usually cover sedation dentistry. You may need to check with your dental insurance company about any particular cases or procedures where sedation dentistry might be covered.

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