Do you become anxious at the first thought of having to visit the dentist? If you’re one of the many people who suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia, you know how stressful it can be to get a simple dental procedure done. Those that suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia typically tend to feel anxious even before stepping foot into the dentist office.
Fortunately, those that do suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be the answer to help relieve their anxiety and fear. Dental sedation can be used in dental procedures ranging from invasive oral surgery to a simple professional cleaning. The method of dental sedation used is all based around the severity of the patients fear and anxiety.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry, also referred to as “sleep dentistry”, uses medication to help ease and relax patients before or during their dental procedure. There are many methods that can be used in sedation dentistry. As mentioned before, the method all depends on the severity of the patients fear and anxiety. The following includes a list of the levels of sedation:
Minimal Sedation- Patient is awake but relaxed.
Moderate Sedation- Patient may slur words when speaking and not remember much.
Deep Sedation- Patient is on the brim of consciousness but can still be woken up.
General Anesthesia- Patient is completely unconscious.
What methods of sedation are used in dentistry?
The following include the four most common methods of sedation dentistry:
- Nitrous Oxide- You simply breathe the nitrous oxide, also referred to as laughing gas, combined with oxygen through a mask that is placed over your nose. This nitrous oxide helps calm the patient’s nerves. This method requires little recovery, however, you will still need to have someone drive you home after the procedure.
- Oral Sedation- This method involves the patient taking an oral medication the night before and day of the dental procedure. The medication will help ensure that the patient is calm and relaxed during the procedure. The recovery time for this method is a bit longer, so be sure to have someone drive you home after the procedure.
- IV Sedation- This method is considered to be moderate to deep sedation. This type of dental sedation is administered into the bloodstream, which results in immediate relaxation. Like oral sedation, the recovery time does take longer and you will require a ride home after the dental procedure.
- General Anesthesia- This is the method of dental sedation which makes the patient either almost unconscious or fully unconscious during the dental procedure. While under general anesthesia the patient cannot be easily awakened until the effects fully wear off. Like all methods of dental sedation, you will require a ride home.
As you can see there are many ways you can conquer your dental phobias and get dental work you need. If you suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia, your dentist will be able to choose the best method of sedation dentistry to help put you at ease during your dental procedure.
If you have questions or concerns regarding dental sedation, contact Dr. Larry Lieberman, DDS 727-785-8017. Or visit www.dentist-lieberman.com for additional information regarding sedation dentistry.
Dr. Larry Lieberman proudly accepts patients from Safety Harbor, Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Dunedin, Tarpon Springs and surrounding areas.
