Anyone who has ever had to have a tooth pulled knows the drill. You discuss your expected symptoms with your dentist, schedule a consultation, and then await the inevitable knock on the door. But what if you don’t have to go through all that hassle? What if you can just sit back and let someone take care of everything? Enter sedation dentistry.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the use of medications to help a person relax and feel calm during dental treatment. It can be used for a variety of reasons, such as to help a patient feel more comfortable during treatment, to reduce anxiety, or to prevent gagging. There are several different forms of sedation, including oral sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas). Oral sedation involves taking a pill that helps you relax. IV sedation is given through a vein in your arm and makes you feel very sleepy. Nitrous oxide is a gas that you breathe in through your nose and helps you relax.
What to Expect
During sedation dentistry, you will be given a pill or an injection to help you relax. You may feel sleepy and drowsy, and you may not remember much about your visit.
The type of sedation used will depend on the type of procedure being done and your individual needs. You may be lightly sedated, which means you will be awake but relaxed. Or you may be given general anaesthesia, which will make you unconscious.
Your dentist will explain the types of sedation available and help you choose the best option for you. Sedation dentistry can make dental treatments less stressful and more comfortable.
What to Bring and What to Avoid
If you are scheduled for a sedation dentistry appointment, it is important to know what to bring and what to avoid. Here is a list of items that are recommended:
-A driver. You will not be able to drive yourself home after your appointment.
-Your dental records. This will help the dentist know your medical history and any medications you are taking.
-Your ID and insurance card.
-A list of questions or concerns you have about the procedure.
Here are some items you should avoid bringing with you:
-Food or drinks. You will not be able to eat or drink anything before your appointment.
-Jewelry or other valuables. You will be asked to remove all jewellery and leave it at the front desk.
Hope to Recover After Your Procedure
It is natural to feel anxious after any dental procedure, especially if you have undergone sedation dentistry. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you recover from your treatment:
-Take it easy for the rest of the day. Avoid any strenuous activity and give yourself time to rest.
-You may experience some mild discomfort or soreness, but this should go away within a few days. If the pain persists or becomes severe, contact your dentist.
-You may have some swelling in your mouth, but this will also dissipate in a few days. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water regularly to help ease the swelling.
-It is normal to feel tired and groggy for a while after sedation dentistry. Make sure you get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids.
Conclusion
Sedation dentistry can be a great option for those who are fearful of dental procedures or have anxiety about them. It can help to make the experience less stressful and more comfortable. If you are considering sedation dentistry, be sure to discuss it with your dentist to see if it is the right option for you.