Different Methods for Dental Sedation
Many people experience some level of anxiousness or anxiety when they visit the dentist. You may worry about not brushing or flossing enough, for instance, of if you'll have a cavity. That's normal. Some people, however, experience major anxiety when it comes to dental care and checkups. Sometimes this anxiety is so severe that people experience panic attacks and even avoid necessary dental health visits.
Patients with extreme anxiety problems and other issues that may make dental treatment difficult can rest easy, however. When meeting with a skilled Troy cosmetic dentist, sedation dentistry can be used in order to improve the patient's experience. Let's take a moment right now to look at some basic concerns regarding sedation dentistry.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to various techniques that dental professionals can use to put their patients in a relaxed state. By doing this, patients will be calm and experience no anxiety while undergoing dental care treatment, allowing them to undergo multiple therapies at our cosmetic dentistry center in Troy.
Note: sedation dentistry is not general anesthetic. Instead, dental sedation techniques are such that they render a patient conscious but relaxed.
Best Candidates for Sedation Dentistry
The best candidates for sedation dentistry are patients who:
- Have severe fear of dentists
- Have a poor gag reflex
- Have difficulty staying still for long periods of time
- Suffer from Parkinson's or other similar conditions
Dental sedation is also a good option for people undergoing lengthy and/or complicated dental procedures, which require long periods spent in the same position.
Let's now look at the different kinds of sedation techniques that are used.
Dental Sedation Using Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)
One method of sedation dentistry involves the use of nitrous oxide, which you may also know as laughing gas. This is administered via mask, and the patient is instructed to take deep breaths so that they can achieve a numb and relaxed state.
Dental Sedation with Oral Medication
Another sedation dentistry method that is common with many dental care treatments involves the use of oral medications. Patients will be instructed to take a pill or liquid prior to coming to the practice, which will put them in a relaxed state. Patients will not be allowed to operate vehicles while on this medication, however, so transportation to and from the practice will need to be arranged.
Dental Sedation with IV Drugs
Another option for sedation involves the use of an IV at the practice. This intravenous method for sedation will be carefully used, and will similarly achieve a relaxed state for patients.
The Best Option for Your Needs
The ideal option for a patient really depends on his or her needs. In some cases, oral sedation and gas may be ideal, though if patients can tolerate needles, IV sedation can be used as well.
During your visit, we will be sure to discuss this and other options for care such as Troy dental implants in order to ensure that you achieve the best dental health possible.
Schedule a Consultation for Advanced Dental Care Treatment
If you would like more information about all of your options for advanced dental care treatment, be sure to contact our Troy cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible dental health with as little worry as possible.
