SEDATION DENTISTRY: RISKS AND BENEFITS

Have you heard of sedation dentistry? It has come as a blessing for people who have extreme fear or anxiety for getting dental procedures done. Anxiety disorder or a past negative dental experience may be responsible. The fear is so extreme that these people avoid the dental procedures which are imperative for maintaining their dental health. The dentist makes use of sedation, so the session goes by quickly without pain or discomfort.

TYPES OF MEDICATIONS USED IN SEDATION DENTISTRY

• Inhaled minimal sedation

You will breathe nitrous oxide which is also known as laughing gas. It’s combined with oxygen and a mask is placed on the nose. The gas will help you relax through the procedure. The dentist will be able to control the amount of sedation. The effect of the gas wears off quite quick.

• Oral sedation

Depending on the dose given, it can vary from minimal to moderate. You will take a pill for minimal sedation which will make your drowsy. And a large dose will be given for moderate sedation. You will feel drowsy or fall asleep during the procedure.

• IV moderate sedation

A sedative drug will be administered through the vein so that it works quickly. It allows the dentist to adjust the level of sedation continuously.

• Deep sedation

Here you will be completely unconscious or deeply in sleep. It’ll take some time for the effect of the sedation to wear off.

SEDATION DENTISTRY RISKS

There are few disadvantages associated with sedation dentistry such as the insurance policy doesn’t cover the sedation dentistry and the cost may be up to 800 dollars. People with sleep apnea will have to consult the dentist before sedation procedure as there’s risk of complication. Different people react differently to types of sedation. Some people may need more amount of sedation for relieving the anxiety.

OVERCOMING YOUR FEAR OF VISITING THE DENTIST

Though sedation dentistry is an option for people with anxiety and fear, it doesn’t help in overcoming the fear. It only prevents you from feeling the pain. It’s important to learn ways to overcome the fear.

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