Sedation dentistry is a field of dental medicine that uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures.
Sedation dentistry can be used for a variety of procedures, from routine cleanings to more invasive procedures such as root canals. While it is generally safe, sedation dentistry does carry some risks, so patients should discuss these with their dentist before undergoing any procedure to ensure it’s the right fit for them!
The Many Benefits
There are several different types of sedation, ranging from oral conscious sedation, which uses pills to help relaxation, to intravenous sedation, which uses intravenous drugs to produce profound relaxation. Dentists may also use nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, to help relaxation.
To get a better grasp on how sedation dentistry can elevate your next procedure, let’s review some of its common and often underappreciated benefits.
A Great Sense of Relaxation
Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to help patients relax during dental procedures. When sedation is used, patients remain conscious but are less aware of their surroundings and feel little to no pain. There are different types of sedation that can be used, depending on the procedure being performed and the patient’s level of anxiety.
For example, nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a popular sedative that is used for minor procedures. Oral sedatives, such as pills or tablets, are often used for more complex procedures. And IV sedation, which is administered directly into the bloodstream, is sometimes used for very anxious patients or those who are undergoing lengthy procedures. Regardless of the type of sedation used, patients can rest assured that they will be well cared for by our experienced team.
An Anxiety Reliever
For many people, the dentist’s office is a place of anxiety and fear. The thought of sitting in the chair, having strange tools in their mouths, and the smell of the office can be enough to make some people break out in a cold sweat. Sedation dentistry offers a way to help reduce a patient’s anxiety and help them have a more positive experience.
Sedation can be used to help take the edge off, or it can be used to help a patient fall asleep during their procedure. This can help to remove any pressure or fear that a patient may feel about their appointment. As a result, sedation dentistry can be an effective way to reduce anxiety and help patients have a more positive experience.
Combating Gag Reflexes
One of the main benefits of sedation dentistry is that it can help to reduce a patient’s gag reflex. The gag reflex is a natural reflex that helps to keep the throat clear of objects that could cause choking. However, for some people, the reflex is overly sensitive, and even the slightest provocation can trigger a strong gag reflex. This can make it difficult or even impossible to undergo routine dental procedures.
Sedation dentistry can help to reduce the sensitivity of the gag reflex, making it possible for patients to receive the dental care they need. In addition, sedation can also help to alleviate feelings of anxiety or discomfort that may be associated with dental procedures. As a result, sedation dentistry can provide a safe and effective way to receive dental care for patients who have a strong gag reflex.
A More Efficient Experience
One of the benefits of sedation dentistry is that it helps the dentist work quicker. When a patient is sedated, they are less likely to move around in the chair or to feel anxious about the procedures being performed. As a result, the dentist can complete the work more quickly and with fewer breaks.
Additionally, sedation can help to reduce pain and discomfort during dental procedures. This means that patients are less likely to need pain medication afterwards, and they can typically resume their normal activities more quickly. For these reasons, sedation dentistry can be an effective way to improve both the efficiency and the quality of dental care.
Promotes a Quick Recovery
Dental sedation is a great way to improve the recovery process after your procedure. It helps to relax the muscles in your face and jaw, which can reduce the amount of pain you feel. It also reduces swelling and bleeding, which can help you heal more quickly. Additionally, dental sedation can help to reduce the risk of infection by keeping your mouth clean and relaxed during the healing process. And as mentioned above, those who undergo a procedure with the use of sedation are less likely to require pain medication.
The Bottomline
Beyond all it’s benefits, it creates a safe space for patients, encouraging those who desperately need particular procedures but are too nervous to take the plunge.
If you have ever avoided going to the dentist because you are afraid of needles or the drill, then you may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry. However, the best way to learn if sedation dentistry is a suitable match for you would be to speak with your dentist directly. If you don’t have one yet, you can find one on the internet by searching for a term like “dentist near me greenville“. Doing so should provide a list of experts that you can reach out to.
