Sleep or sedation dentistry can help you feel calm, comfortable, and at ease during dental operations. It is a modest level of sedation, so you are technically awake but feeling relaxed. Sunnyvale sleep dentistry induces a state of short-term amnesia (forgetfulness) in which you are insensitive to pain without losing consciousness. Your health provider will adjust the sedation for you, and the level will depend on the therapy being done.
Common types of sedation used in dentistry
There are varying levels of sedation dentistry depending on your specific needs. Factors include your anxiety level, the operation’s length, your health history, and personal choices. The most prevalent types of sedation dentistry include;
1. Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is sometimes known as “laughing gas.” You inhale nitrous oxide through a mask or nosepiece, and soothing effects start within three to five minutes. Your specialist manages the quantity of sedation you get and modifies dosages accordingly throughout your operation.
Once your procedure is over, the dentist administers pure oxygen to flush the nitrous oxide from your system. Since the laughing gas leaves your system so rapidly, you will be able to drive yourself home following the treatment.
2. Intravenous (IV) sedation
IV sedation dentistry is the most profound type of conscious sedation accessible in a dental office setting. Your dentist administers sedative drugs directly into your bloodstream via an IV line. Also, the healthcare professional monitors your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels during your operation. They can modify your dosage at any time and employ reversal medicines if needed.
Most patients who receive IV sedation dentistry fall asleep and have little to no memory of their procedure when they wake up. Furthermore, this alternative is ideal for those with severe dental anxiety or who have lengthy treatments.
3. Oral conscious sedation
Oral conscious sedation involves your dentist administering sedative medicine (typically in tablet form) around an hour before your treatment. Most dentists utilize triazolam, a diazepam compound. However, your dentist may also utilize other drugs, such as zaleplon and lorazepam. Also, dentists often use liquid sedation, such as midazolam oral syrup, when dealing with kids.
Oral sedation causes drowsiness and may cause you to fall asleep; however, you will be able to converse with your dentist if required and gently nudged awake. Since oral sedation momentarily impairs your memory and motor abilities, you will need the assistance of a friend or family member to drive you home following your operation.
What occurs during your sedation dentistry
Your dentist administers sedative medications before starting the procedure. You will still be given local anesthesia to numb your teeth and gums, but this is normally done once you feel comfortable with the sedatives.
The benefits of sedation dentistry
Sedation dentistry alleviates anxieties and concerns, allowing you to stay calm and relaxed throughout dental operations. Since your dentist can generally work quicker when you are sedated, you may have fewer visits. Furthermore, many people are so afraid of the dentist that they avoid going to appointments entirely. As a result, sedation dentistry makes you feel more at ease, allowing you to get the treatment you require and deserve.
Anxiety should not prevent you from obtaining the quality dental therapy you deserve. If the thought of going to your dentist makes you nervous or anxious, sedation dentistry can help you receive the care you require for long-term oral health. Talk to your healthcare provider to find a sedation alternative that works for you. Call Perio & Implant Center of Monterey Bay and Silicon Valley to schedule your meeting today to determine whether you are the right candidate for sleep dentistry procedures.