Having routine dental care, such as cleanings and exams, is an important part of ensuring good oral health. If you are nervous about going to the dentist for cleanings or other dental services, undergoing sedation can help you feel more relaxed and make these visits more pleasant. This type of dentistry involves using medication to induce relaxation while dental procedures are performed. In most cases, patients remain awake and aware of their surroundings while under sedation, although heavier sedatives are also available. 

How Does It Work?

There are different levels of sedation available. The level that you will need depends on how nervous you are about having dental work performed and what kind of dental procedure you need. Minimal sedation means that you feel relaxed and are kept awake during your visit, while moderate sedation means you might experience mild side effects, such as slurred speech and limited awareness of what is going on around you. Deep sedation means you are still technically conscious, but you are generally unaware of what is going on during your dental procedure. General anesthesia is the highest level of sedation since you are unconscious during your dental procedure. This is generally reserved for complicated dental procedures. 

What Kinds Are Available?

Dentists use different forms of sedatives to promote relaxation and ease anxiety. These include inhaled sedatives, such as laughing gas, oral medications that are taken before dental visits, drugs delivered via an IV and medications for deep sedation and general anesthesia.

Is It Safe?

Sedation dentistry is considered safe for most patients, although those with medical conditions or who take certain medications should let their dentist know beforehand. While you are sedated, your blood pressure, heart rate and other vital signs will be closely monitored. This helps ensure that steps can be taken immediately if there are any sudden changes in one or more of these vital signs. You can also make sure you have a safe experience by going to a dentist who has experience and training in administering sedatives. 

Is It Right for Me?

You should consider sedation if you are anxious about going to the dentist, especially if you have gone years without dental care due to this fear. If you are afraid of needles or if you have a poor gag reflex, being sedated can help make dental visits safer and more comfortable for you. Your dentist can help you determine if you are a good candidate for this type of dentistry. You should let your dentist know if you have any medical problems or if you use any prescription or nonprescription medications. 

If dental visits make you nervous, please contact Premier Dental Care for an appointment with our dentist. We offer safe and effective sedation dentistry to make your visits as stress-free as possible!