For many people, a trip to the dentist can bring feelings of anxiety or even fear. Sedation dentistry offers a safe and effective way to ease those worries, making dental care more comfortable and stress-free. If you’ve ever been curious about how sedation works, you’re not alone. Here are answers to 5 common questions about sedation dentistry.
1. What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures. It doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be “asleep” (unless general anesthesia is used, which is less common for routine care). Instead, sedation can range from mild relaxation to a deeper state of calm, depending on your needs and the type of procedure being performed. This makes it easier for both patients and dentists to complete treatment smoothly.
2. What Types of Sedation Are Available?
There are several levels of sedation dentistry:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): A mild form of sedation inhaled through a mask. It relaxes you quickly and wears off just as fast, meaning you can usually drive yourself home afterward.
- Oral sedation: A prescribed pill taken before your appointment. It provides moderate sedation, making you drowsy and relaxed, though you’ll remain awake.
- IV sedation: Delivered through a vein, this method allows the dentist to adjust the sedation level quickly. You may not remember much of the procedure.
3. Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is generally very safe when performed by a trained professional. Dentists carefully review your medical history and current medications before recommending sedation. Your vital signs, such as heart rate and oxygen levels, are monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety. For added peace of mind, dentists who offer sedation undergo specialized training to provide it safely.
4. Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can be helpful for a wide range of patients, including those who:
- Experience dental anxiety or phobia.
- Have a low pain tolerance.
- Need extensive dental work completed in one visit.
- Have a sensitive gag reflex.
- Struggle to sit still for long periods.
It’s also commonly used for children or individuals with special needs who may find it difficult to stay calm in the dental chair.
5. Will I Remember Anything After the Procedure?
This depends on the type of sedation used. With nitrous oxide, you’ll likely remember everything but feel more relaxed. Oral and IV sedation often cause drowsiness and some memory loss, meaning you may not recall much of the procedure.
Sedation dentistry has helped countless patients overcome dental fear and get the care they need without stress or discomfort. If you’ve been putting off an appointment because of anxiety, talk to your dentist about your sedation options. With the right approach, your next dental visit can be calm, safe, and worry-free.
About the Author
Dr. Roel Valadez was born and raised right in Alice. He is a graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio before completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at UT Health San Antonio. Since then, he has obtained additional certifications in pain control and conscious sedation (he’s one of just two general dentists in the Coastal Bend area who is licensed to provide IV sedation), medical sedation, and pediatric sedation. With this kind of specialty training, you can trust Dr. Valadez and our team to provide you with safe sedation dentistry to make your next visit a calm and comfortable one. Schedule your appointment online or call (361) 664-3057.