Are you nervous or fearful of the dentist, or of dental treatment? Do you have a sensitive gag reflex that makes even routine oral health care uncomfortable? You may be an excellent candidate for sedation dentistry. If you’ve been considering trying sedation at your next dental appointment, here are the answers to four important questions to help you make an informed decision.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is use of sedatives during dental procedures to help you feel relaxed and calm. It can also help if you feel peaceful if you have a sensitive gag reflex. There are several different types of sedation available, depending on your unique needs.
Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is an excellent option for patients of all ages, including children. However, your dentist will need to review your medical history to determine if you qualify for this treatment. Patients with specific conditions may be a bad fit for some sedatives, so it is very important that you are completely transparent about your medical history during your consultation.
What are the Different Types of Sedation Available?
There are several types of sedation available. Which one is best for you will be determined by your dentist, and take into account your medical history, age, and the severity of your dental anxiety or gag reflex sensitivity.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide is the most used type of sedation. It is administered via a tube that fits comfortably in the nostrils so that your mouth can remain unobstructed during your dental treatment. You simply breathe in sweet smelling gas, which is mixed with oxygen, and within minutes you will feel a peaceful calm but remain fully awake and alert.
The effects of nitrous oxide go away as soon as your dentist stops administering it. Once your treatment is over, you will continue to relax and breathe in pure oxygen for about five minutes. After this, you will be free to go with no grogginess. You can drive yourself home, return to work, or go about your day without any side effects, unless they are from the procedure itself.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia uses a combination of different medications to ensure that you are completely unconscious during treatment. Once your treatment is over, you will likely feel sleepy or groggy, and you should not remember anything about your procedure. If you receive general anesthesia, you will need to have a pre-arranged ride home with someone you can trust.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is best for patients with severe anxiety or who are having a lengthy dental procedure. During this treatment, your anesthesia is delivered through a needle in your arm. You will still be awake; however, you will be in an extremely deep state of relaxation and will have little to no memory of treatment after it’s over. You will need a ride home from your procedure if you receive IV sedation.
What are the Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry?
The side effects of your sedation dentistry treatment depend on the type of sedation you receive, but most patients only experience lingering grogginess. For some who receive nitrous oxide, it is possible to bruise easily afterwards, as this treatment depletes your levels of vitamin B12. If this is a concern for you, your dentist can discuss alternative sedation options during your consultation.
Remember, it’s extremely normal to have some fear or anxiety about being treated by the dentist, even for routine exams. Sedation dentistry provides an excellent solution, helping to keep you feeling calm and relaxed during your procedure. If you are interested in learning more about how it can help you, speak to your dentist today!
About Dr. Shinwari
Dr. Hasnain Shinwari is a board-certified oral surgeon with over 15 years of experience. He understands that dental procedures, especially more complex treatments, can cause patients to feel scared or anxious, which is why he’s proud to offer a variety of sedation dentistry options to help you feel calm and comfortable.
Dr. Shinwari is a member of the American Dental Association, Virginia Dental Association, American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, American Board of the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, American Dental Board of Anesthesiology and the Virginia Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons.
To schedule a sedation dentistry appointment at Oral & Facial Surgery Center of Virginia, please visit our website or call us today at 703-574-4717.