For some people, the idea of a dental procedure brings anxiety and even fear. Although there is nothing to be afraid of, many people who may be having a procedure for the first time may be nervous. For these patients, having the procedure done under sedation is the best choice. Let’s look at how a sedation dentistry periodontist can make your visit more comfortable.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help people relax during a dental procedure. There are different levels of sedation that can be used. [1] These include:
- Minimal sedation: You are awake but relaxed.
- Moderate sedation: You may not remember much of the procedure.
- Deep sedation: You are on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.
- General anesthesia: You are completely unconscious.
Your periodontist can help you determine the level of sedation that would be best for you to be most comfortable during your procedure.
Why Would People Need Sedation Dentistry?
Besides being nervous about a dental procedure, there are other instances when people want or need sedation dentistry.
Low Pain Threshold
Some people have a low tolerance for pain and do better with sedation dentistry. This makes them more comfortable and allows their periodontist to finish the procedure easier and quicker.
Very Sensitive Teeth
People with very sensitive teeth can be uncomfortable during dental procedures. They may also feel more anxious because they are in pain.
Bad Gag Reflex
When people have a bad gag reflex, they tend to gag when the roof of the mouth or back of the tongue is touched. This can make any dental work hard to accomplish. If sedation dentistry is used, it makes the procedure much easier.
Large Amounts of Dental Work
If a person is in the dental chair for a long time, they may benefit from sedation dentistry. It can make the time pass quicker and make the patient more comfortable.
Children’s Procedures
Many children may not like to have dental procedures done. They can benefit from sedation dentistry because it can relax them and allow the periodontist to complete the procedure without issue.
What are the Types of Sedation Dentistry?
To achieve the different sedation states that we mentioned, there are different types of sedation that a patient can have. [1]
Inhaled minimal sedation
For this type of sedation dentistry, you breathe nitrous oxide to help you relax. The gas tends to wear off quickly once the procedure is complete.
Oral sedation
This can be anywhere from minimal to moderate. You take a pill for minimal sedation, while a larger dose of the pill is given for moderate sedation. Some people fall asleep during the procedure but can be awakened with a gentle shake.
IV moderate sedation
IV moderate sedation is given through your vein, so you feel it more quickly. Many people are generally in a light state of sleep when they’re given this type of sedation. You won’t feel any pain, nor will you remember anything that happened during the procedure.
Deep sedation and general anesthesia
You will be in a deep sleep during the procedure and usually can’t easily wake until the effects wear off.
Contact a Sedation Dentistry Periodontist in Rochester
If you consider seeing a sedation dentistry periodontist, visit Dr. Zahavi at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester. We collaborate with a board-certified anesthesiologist to administer IV sedation and monitor patients through the procedure. Dr. Zahavi is a board-certified periodontist who is highly experienced in sedation dentistry.
For more information about sedation dentistry, contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you. 585-685-1005
Sources:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/sedation-dentistry-can-you-really-relax-in-the-dentists-chair#1
