Why Consider Sedation Dentistry?

Why Consider Sedation Dentistry?

by:William M. Vandervoort, D.M.D.

If you get the jitters just thinking about a dental appointment, you are not alone. Some studies suggest that 75% of US adults experience some degree of dental fear! Some of these patients are worried that they will not get numb before their procedure or they are frightened by the idea of local anesthetic injection. Other people have had bad dental experiences as children. Some people are ashamed of their strong gag reflex. Still others find it difficult to keep their mouths open and sit still while in the dental chair. Whatever your reason, we want to help break the cycle of avoidance. Patients often choose sedation for longer restorative procedures and oral surgery procedures. Advances in sedation dentistry have completely changed the way that dental care can be provided. Sedation dentistry allows you to relax, sit comfortably, and can make your dental visit more enjoyable.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation:

Commonly called laughing gas, nitrous oxide sedation provides relaxation, but the patient is still generally aware of surrounding activities. Before the procedure, a careful review of your medical history is performed to ensure you are a good candidate for nitrous oxide sedation. Nitrous oxide is delivered via inhalation through a nasal hood or cannula and is minimally invasive. Once the nitrous oxide takes effect, patients often describe a relaxed, carefree experience. Its effects can be reversed in about five minutes with 100% oxygen, and you are free to resume your normal daily activities.

Oral Conscious Sedation (OCS)

Oral Conscious Sedation is given in pill or liquid form and brings about a minimally depressed level of consciousness. Oral conscious sedation is not sleep. Patients are able to make meaningful responses throughout the procedure, but usually have limited or no recollection of the appointment. After careful review of your medical history, a unique sedation regimen will be tailored for each patient.

We may prescribe a medication for you to take the night before your appointment to ensure a good night of rest. Upon arrival for your appointment, settle into a comfortable chair with a pillow and warm blanket. Monitoring equipment will be placed and additional oral medications are given to achieve a desirable level of sedation. At least one member of our team is with you monitoring your well-being at all times.

Because oral conscious sedation causes drowsiness, you will need to have someone drive you to and from your appointment.

Intravenous (IV) Moderate Sedation

IV moderate sedation is a drug-induced state of reduced awareness. IV sedation is not sleep. Patients are able to make meaningful responses throughout the procedure, but usually have limited or no recollection of the appointment. After careful review of your medical history, a unique sedation regimen will be tailored for each patient.

Upon arrival for your appointment, settle into a comfortable chair with a pillow and warm blanket.

Monitoring equipment will be placed and the doctor will establish an IV line (usually in the arm or hand). Sedative medications are then titrated directly into the bloodstream to achieve a desirable level of sedation.

Because IV moderate sedation causes drowsiness, you will need to have someone with you to drive you home from your appointment.