SOLUTIONS FOR DENTAL ANXIETY
Sedation Dentistry - Temecula, CA
IV Sedation
IV Sedation also known as Deep Conscious Sedation is usually used by Oral Surgeons and dentists with specialized training and special certification. With this type of sedation, medications are administered directly into the blood stream.
The greatest advantage of IV Sedation is that if someone is not sedated enough, the doctor can administer more medication and the effects are instantaneous. IV Sedation is not used commonly in most dental offices because of the specialized advanced training required and the requirements for certification by the State Board of Dentistry.
The drugs used for IV Sedation are more effective then the same drugs taken orally. There is a more profound amnesia associated with this technique.
Oral Sedation
Enteral Conscious Sedation "Orally Administered Sedation", sometimes called "Sedation Dentistry" is administered by taking a pill. All body functions remain normal and the person is able to breathe on their own. The patient will often fall asleep. Some degree of amnesia is common. The disadvantage with this method of sedation, is that the level of sedation for each person is not predictable.
With Oral (Enteral) Conscious Sedation and Inhalation Conscious Sedation, the patient will experience a state of very deep relaxation. You can still speak and respond to the requests of others.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
When patients visit the dentist for a regular exam, cleaning, and x-rays, most do so without any form of sedation, as these procedures are quick, painless, and non-invasive. Even procedures like fillings, crowns, and tooth extraction can often be completed with nothing more than the administration of a local anesthetic like Novocain for patient comfort.
That said, there are certain procedures for which additional measures are needed to ensure patient comfort and ease of treatment, and this is where sedation dentistry comes into play. It can be used not only for intensive or time-consuming procedures that might cause patient discomfort, but also for patients that suffer from dental anxiety.
Essentially, sedation dentistry is used to help patients relax during procedures. There are different levels of sedation dentistry, including options for the patient to remain awake, but relaxed, as well as treatments that put the patient to sleep throughout a procedure. In all cases, sedation is administered under the supervision and monitoring of trained professionals for patient safety and comfort.
Sedation dentistry is typically recommended for patients undergoing intensive or time-consuming procedures, patients who have a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth, and those who suffer from issues like dental anxiety. It is not recommended for pregnant women, those who are allergic to sedatives, or patients with certain health conditions. The trained and experienced team at Elevate Dental will discuss your medical history before moving ahead with sedation dentistry.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
The main goal of sedation dentistry is to help patients have a successful and positive experience, enjoying a comfortable and relaxing visit. In some cases, this is a matter of easing potential physical discomfort, as with certain procedures or for patients who suffer extreme oral sensitivity.
Sedation dentistry may also be recommended for patients that have issues like a strong gag reflex or dental anxiety. Such problems can prevent you from scheduling regular dental visits that are needed to maintain good oral health.
With the right form of oral sedation, you can remain calm and relaxed during your visit, whether you’re coming in for a regular cleaning and exam or you need a filling or root canal. Sedation dentistry is particularly useful when patients need multiple and/or time-consuming procedures that might otherwise cause discomfort or growing anxiety.
When anxious, patients may have trouble remaining calm and still, and even small twitches could lead to accidents when using a drill or other dental tools. With sedation dentistry, patients can remain relaxed for hours, often drifting off to sleep during the procedure. If you’re curious about sedation dentistry, don’t hesitate to ask us if this option is right for you.