Many people experience fear or anxiety when visiting the dentist, and this may become a debilitating issue. For some individuals, these fears may prevent them from receiving the necessary dental treatment; over time, this can lead to severe oral health concerns due to neglect. Unfortunately, your mouth is prone to severe oral health conditions that can intensify and spread if neglected for many years.
If an individual is uncomfortable with the thought of visiting a nearby oral healthcare professional, dental sedation may help alleviate their fears.
What Is Dental Sedation?
Using medication during dental operations to help patients relax and unwind is known as dental sedation. Dental sedation comes in various forms, from a light sedation to deep, unconscious sedation. The type of dental procedure and the patient’s individual needs will determine the level of necessary sedation.
Is Dental Sedation Safe?
Generally, dental sedation is considered safe when provided by a trained and experienced dental expert. Dental staff are trained to observe patients for any signs of respiratory distress, during the course of their procedure, but this is rare.
In addition to these hazards, dental sedation may also carry a risk of drug allergies or reduced blood pressure. Your dentist or anesthesiologist works to help control these adverse effects, which are typically minimal.
Types of Dental Sedation
Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas)
At dental offices, nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as laughing gas, is a common light sedative. The patient wears a mask over their nose and breathes in the oxygen-mixed gas. Patients who use nitrous gas during dental operations feel more at ease, yet they can still interact with the dentist and follow directions.
Oral Sedation (Pills)
Before the dental procedure, patients who choose oral sedation take pills containing the medicine. The medicine makes patients feel sleepy and at ease, but they are still conscious and able to follow the dentist’s instructions. Depending on the dosage, oral sedation might be mild to moderate.
IV Sedation
Medicine is administered through an IV to achieve a deeper level of drowsiness. Although deeply relaxed, patients can still breathe independently and respond to the dentist’s instructions. IV sedation is frequently used for more intensive dental treatments, such as wisdom teeth extraction, or for individuals who are anxious about the dentist.
Benefits of Dental Sedation
Reduced Anxiety and Fear
Dental sedation may help to ease worry and anxiety related to dental operations. Patients may find it less difficult to attend appointments without feeling stressed during treatment.
Enhanced Comfort
Patient comfort during dental operations may improve with dental sedation. Calm and relaxed individuals are less likely to think about potential pain or discomfort during procedures, and tend to feel relaxed and at ease instead.
Most individuals who feel relaxed and less anxious during essential oral healthcare treatments will be more inclined to seek critical dental care and attend regular appointments—these habits and routines may lead to better overall oral health over a period of time.
Final Words
It’s important to review your options for dental sedation with a reputable dentist near you. If you are considering sedation dentistry in Grande Prairie, feel free to reach out to our team today. We will work with you to choose the appropriate sedation to keep you comfortable throughout your treatment.
Sedation Dentistry in Grande Prairie
Speak with Cygnet Dental today if you are considering sedation dentistry in Grande Prairie! If you or someone you know has experienced anxiety or phobia, our aim is to help make your oral healthcare experience as comfortable as possible.
Call Cygnet Dental today at 587-803-2464.
