Oral sedation dentistry is a relatively new, but growing, field of dental care. For years, people have been put off going to the dentist because they were worried about the experience being too stressful, or they were afraid of the pain. But now with oral sedation dentistry available as an option, it’s possible for patients to go in feeling fully confident knowing that they’ll be spared any undue anxiety and worry. Find out more about this innovative technique!
What is Oral Sedation Dentistry?
Oral sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who experience anxiety or fear when visiting the dentist. This type of sedation uses medication to help relax patients before and during their appointment. Oral sedation is safe and effective, and can make dental procedures much more comfortable for patients. If you’re interested in learning more about oral sedation dentistry, read on for everything you need to know.
Who is a candidate for oral sedation dentistry?
Oral sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who experience anxiety or fear when visiting the dentist. If you have a low tolerance for pain, are sensitive to needles, or have a gag reflex, oral sedation may be right for you. Your dentist will help you determine if oral sedation is the best option for you based on your medical history and the procedure you are having done.
What are the different types of oral sedation dentistry?
There are four different types of oral sedation dentistry:
1. Minimal Sedation Dentistry: This type of sedation dentistry uses drugs that will make you feel relaxed but you will still be awake and able to communicate with your dentist.
2. Moderate Sedation Dentistry: This type of sedation dentistry uses drugs that will make you feel drowsy but you will still be awake and able to communicate with your dentist.
3. Deep Sedation Dentistry: This type of sedation dentistry uses drugs that will make you unconsciousness and you will not be able to communicate with your dentist.
4. General Anesthesia: This type of sedation dentistry uses drugs that will make you unconscious and you will not be able to breathe on your own, so you will need the help of a machine to breathe for you.
How long does an appointment take with oral sedations?
An appointment with oral sedation usually takes a little longer than a regular appointment. This is because the dentist will need to make sure that the sedative has taken effect and that you are feeling relaxed before starting the procedure. However, the extra time is well worth it for a stress-free experience.
Advantages of oral sedation dentistry
There are many advantages to oral sedation dentistry. One of the most important is that it can help to reduce stress and anxiety during dental procedures. This can be a big help for people who have a fear of going to the dentist or who have had bad experiences in the past. Oral sedation can also make it easier to get through longer or more complex dental procedures. And, because you are relaxed, you may be less likely to experience pain during the procedure.
Disadvantages of oral sedations for dental patients
Some disadvantages of oral sedation for dental patients include:
- It can cause drowsiness and make it difficult to drive or operate machinery afterwards
- It can interact with other medications
- It can cause nausea and vomiting
- It can lengthen the duration of the dental procedure
We hope that this article has helped you understand what oral sedation dentistry is and how it can help you have a stress-free experience at the dentist. If you think that oral sedation might be right for you, we encourage you to talk to your dentist about it. They will be able to answer any questions you have and help you decide if it is the right choice for you.
