How Sedation Dentistry Is Used For A Variety Of Procedures

Going to the dentist and undergoing dental treatment can be highly stressful. One way to make the process easier is to go to a sedation dentist. However, you might wonder what to expect when making this decision. 

Why Sedation Dentistry?

The goal of sedation dentistry is to use sedatives to help you relax while you are undergoing a procedure. You are not sedated to such an extent that you fall asleep, and you are conscious throughout the entire procedure, but the sedation is meant to make you not feel as nervous. However, the sedation is strong enough that you might not remember anything. 

Sedation dentistry can be used for a variety of procedures. However, the procedures that are the most likely to involve sedation dentistry are those that are lengthy and painful. Tooth extractions and root canals are common examples of situations where you wouldn't want to remember the procedure and would want to feel relaxed throughout.

Sedation Dentistry During Tooth Extractions

When you are having your tooth extracted, your dentist will give you local anesthesia so that the pain will be numbed. In combination with the local anesthesia, your dentist might also recommend that you be sedated so that you'll be relaxed and won't remember the procedure.

If the procedure is expected to be especially painful, your dentist might even recommend that you be placed under general anesthesia. If this is the case, you will lose consciousness and will be asleep.

Sedation Dentistry During a Root Canal

Root canals are generally assumed to be painful, but this is not always the case. Dentists have developed new techniques and use special medications that allow them to perform root canals with minimal pain. However, it can still be painful and you might choose to be sedated during the procedure.

Even if your procedure is not expected to be painful, you might still feel the need to be sedated because you might have a fear of dentists or you might feel anxious about the procedure. You might also have a sensitive gag reflex, and you may need to be sedated to prevent this from interfering with the procedure.

How the Sedative Is Administered

IV sedation involves injecting a sedative into your veins. This is the deepest form of sedation. However, this is often considered to be excessive, and there are other methods, such as nitrous oxide, which involves breathing in gas, and oral conscious sedation, which involves taking a pill and waiting for it to take effect. With each of these options available to you, you'll easily forget your trip to the dentist.

To learn more, contact a dentist that offers sedation dentistry services.