Dental Treatment With Sedation. How It Works?

Does the idea of ​​cleaning your teeth make your whole body tense with fear? Would you rather endure the agony of a toothache than step foot into the dentist's office? You are not alone. Many people are so afraid of going to the dentist that they prefer not to have any treatment.

For people who avoid dentists like the plague, sedative dentistry can take some of their anxiety away. Sedation can be used for everything from invasive procedures to simple teeth cleaning. How it is used depends on the severity of the fear.

What is sedative dental treatment?

Sedation dentistry uses medications to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is sometimes called "sleep dentistry", although it is not entirely accurate. Patients are usually awake, except those under general anesthesia.

Sedation levels used include:

• Minimum sedation - you are awake but relaxed.
• Moderate sedation (formerly called "conscious sedation") - you may slur words as you speak and not remember much of the procedure.
• Deep sedation - you are at the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.
• General anesthesia - you are completely unconscious.

What types of sedation are used in dentistry?

The following types of sedation are used in dentistry:

• Minimum inhaled sedation . You breathe in nitrous oxide - otherwise known as "laughing gas" - combined with oxygen through a mask placed over your nose. Gas helps you relax. Your dentist can control the amount of sedation you receive, and gas tends to pass quickly. This is the only form of sedation where you can drive home after the procedure.
• Oral sedation . Depending on the total dose administered, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill. Typically, the pill is Halcion, which is a member of the same family of drugs as Valium, and is usually taken about an hour before the procedure. The pill will make you drowsy even though you are still awake. A larger dose can be administered to produce moderate sedation. This is the type of anesthesia most commonly associated with dental sedation. Some people are dizzy enough with moderate oral sedation to fall asleep during the procedure. They can usually be woken up with a gentle shake.
• Moderate IV sedation. You get the sedative through a vein, so it works more quickly. This method allows the dentist to continuously adjust the level of sedation.
• Deep sedation and general anesthesia . You will be given medications that will make you either barely conscious or completely unconscious - deeply asleep - during the procedure. While you are under general anesthesia, you may not be easily awakened until the effects of the anesthesia wear off or are reversed with medication.

Regardless of the type of sedation you receive, you will also need a local anesthetic - a numbing medication in the area where the dentist is working in your mouth - to relieve pain if the procedure causes any discomfort.

Who can have sedation at the dentist?

Sedation is most appropriate for people with real fear or anxiety that prevents them from going to the dentist.

Sedation dentistry may also be appropriate for people who:

• has a low pain threshold
• I can't sit still in the dentist's chair
• has very sensitive teeth
• has a bad gag reflex
• needs a large amount of dental work completed

Sometimes children are given sedation if they are afraid to go to the dentist or refuse to cooperate during the visit. Nitrous oxide tends to be safe in children and almost any dentist can administer it. A smaller percentage of pediatric dentists are trained to give oral sedation to children. Oral sedation can be safe when maintained within the recommended dose for the child's age and weight.

Can any dentist perform sedation?

Most dentists can administer minimal sedation (such as nitrous oxide or pills). An increasing number of dentists can give moderate sedation. However, only a small percentage of dentists who have completed training in deep sedation and general anesthesia can use these more complex techniques. These dentists are usually oral and maxillofacial surgeons and dental anesthesiologists. Some dentists use an anesthesiologist who is specially trained to administer all levels of sedation and anesthesia to children and adults.

The dental board of each state carefully regulates the use of sedation techniques. Many states require dentists to have permits to perform sedation.

How safe is sedation dentistry?

There is always a risk of getting anesthesia. However, it is generally safe when administered by experienced dentists. However, certain people, such as those who are obese or have obstructive sleep apnea, should talk to their doctor before receiving sedation. This is because they are more likely to develop complications from anesthesia.

It is important to make sure your dentist is trained and qualified to administer the type of sedation you will receive. To be a smart patient, you must make sure the following things are done:

1. Prior to the procedure, your dentist should review your medical history. Your dentist should also determine if you are a suitable candidate for sedation and ask about any medications you are currently taking.
2. You should ask what dose of sedative is appropriate for your age and health.
3. It is important to know how much training the dentist has and how many procedures he has performed with sedation. The more procedures the dentist performs, the better.
4. You should receive a form detailing the risks of the procedure. Examine it carefully with your dentist. Ask questions if you are unsure of any of the words.
5. The dentist should monitor your vital signs during the procedure according to the guidelines. The dentist should also offer oxygen - artificial ventilation - and drugs that reverse the effects of sedation, if necessary.