For some of us, a trip to the dentist may be a traumatic experience. Because of the drilling, anesthesia, and the needles involved, some people have developed a phobia of the dental office. They only visit a dentist’s office near them if they have excruciating pain or a dental emergency. But, that should not be the case because, with sedation dentistry in San Antonio, you can go through any dental procedure with ease.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses sedatives and medication to relax and reduce phobia, making it easy to go through any dental procedure. While it is referred to as sleep dentistry, it rarely causes unconsciousness (unless deep sedation is used).
What Are the Different Types Available?
Dental sedation is available in different versions, and they differ when it comes to the dosage and the type of procedure to be done.
- Laughing gas or inhaled sedation
Inhaled gas is a light sedation, and it is the most conservative version. The dentist will administer laughing gas a few minutes before the procedure because it takes effect immediately and wears out as fast. Because of these features, inhaled sedation is ideal for children.
- Oral sedation
Pill sedation is a bit stronger, and the dentist will give you an oral medication a few hours before the procedure. However, it can take time for the pill to metabolize, and this also limits the dentist from adjusting the dosage. Pill sedation does not cause you to become unconscious, but you can drift to sleep and be woken up with a gentle shake.
- Intravenous sedation
An IV sedation is administered via the veins directly to the bloodstream. The dentist can adjust the dosage, and this makes it ideal for complex procedures.
- Deep sedation
Deep or general sedation causes unconscious, and it is reserved for procedures like oral surgery. It does not wear out easily, and the dentist will use medication to reduce its effect.
Is Sedation Same as Anesthesia?
No, they are not similar. Dental sedation is used to relax and keep you calm. Anesthesia, on the other hand, is used to numb the gums and reduce discomfort. In most cases, the dentist uses both anesthesia and sedation.
What Are the Benefits of Using Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation offers several benefits, which include:
- Reduces anxiety
The primary reason why a sedation dentist near you may recommend sedatives is anxiety. Dental sedation relaxes you and keeps you calm, making it easy to go through any dental procedure regardless of the complexity.
- You won’t remember the procedure
Previous dental procedures are the most common causes of phobia and anxiety, especially if there was pain. Using dental sedation will not cause unconsciousness, but you will not be aware of the steps taken during the treatment. This will make it hard to have a memory of the procedure.
- Reduces gag reflex
A gag reflex is a reflexive natural occurrence that prevents you from choking or swallowing a foreign matter. However, a severe gag reflex may make it hard for the dentist to carry out even the simplest procedures. Sedation dentistry relaxes the back muscles and reduces gag reflex.
- Hastens the dental procedure
Our dentist in 78209 can work faster if you are calm and relaxed. This reduces the time it takes to complete a procedure and the number of dental visits.
How Long Does Sedation Take to Wear Off?
The sedatives will wear out differently based on the dosage used. Laughing gas tends to wear quicker than the rest because it is light. Oral pills and IV sedation, on the other hand, take time to wear out. Regardless of the type of sedation used, it is not advisable to resume any activities immediately.
Is Dental Sedation Safe?
Dental sedation is safe, but you may experience some side effects like nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, grogginess, and fatigue. The dentist might give you medication to reduce the severity of these problems.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Terrell Hills Dental for more information about dental sedation and what you can expect.