Sedation dentistry in Oklahoma City can free you from the fear and worry that comes with seeing the dentist. Modern medical technology enables your dentist to tailor the amount and type of sedation to your needs, whether you’re undergoing extensive care or just a simple procedure.
What Types of Patients Can Benefit from Dental Sedation?
Sedation dentistry is especially beneficial for these types of patients:
- Those with a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth. Some people experience discomfort during even minimal procedures. Sedation can ensure these patients of a comfortable treatment experience.
- Those who are fidgety. Staying still is important during dental treatment. Sedation can calm those anxious nerves.
- Those with a strong gag reflex. If the thought of having a dental instrument in your mouth makes you want to gag, then sedation might be the ticket for you.
- Those who need a great deal of care. Some dental procedures can last for well over an hour. Sedation enables those patients to relax and let the time pass by.
Levels of Dental Sedation
Sedation dentistry falls into four broad classes:
- Minimal sedation. This procedure uses nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” to induce a relaxed state. The dentist will administer the sedative using an oxygen mask that fits comfortably over your face. The effects wear off relatively quickly after the procedure.
- Moderate sedation. This involves the use of an oral agent, usually a tranquilizer called Halcion. You’ll take the pill about an hour before the procedure. During treatment you’ll feel drowsy and may doze off, although the dentist will be able to wake you if necessary.
- Deep sedation. The dentist or a trained anesthesiologist administers the medicine using an IV. You’ll drift into a gentle sleep, awakening after the treatment is over.
- General anesthesia. This is the most profound level of sedation currently used. It’s similar to being deeply asleep.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
All forms of sedation entail some degree of risk. That being said, sedation dentistry is one of the safest forms of treatment on earth. Your dentist will discuss the procedure with you ahead of time so you know what to expect.
Sedation dentistry is not the best treatment approach for everyone. People who are obese or have heart conditions require special considerations. Your dentist may employ a lighter form of sedation for these patients or use another option entirely. Tell your dentist about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you take prior to scheduling the procedure.
Certain types of sedation may require you to restrict your diet on the day before the appointment. You may also need to suspend use of certain medicines until after treatment is complete.
Nowadays there’s no reason for anyone to suffer from needless anxiety over a trip to the dentist’s office. Talk to your dentist in Oklahoma City about sedation therapy during your upcoming consultation. There’s no better way to get the care you need without the worry you could do without.
About the Author
Dr. Jon Holman is s trained sedation dentist and a proud member of the American Dental Association (ADA). He keeps his skills sharp by taking ongoing education and training courses throughout the year. You can reach his office online or by calling (405) 735-6600.
