Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry has been a game changer, helping patients feel confident and relaxed as they undergo procedures. While it is not a new concept, it has evolved over the years. Looking back, Ancient Greeks relied on roots and herbs to act as anesthesia and sedatives. The Incas on the other hand would numb patients using cocoa leaves. Toady though, science has made it possible to have standard forms of sedation that are accessible, easy to administer and most importantly very effective.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

This is a filed in dentistry that uses medication and local anesthesia to numb patients or put them in a calm and relaxed state before and during a procedure. It is also sometimes referred to as ‘sleep dentistry’, although you will not always be put to sleep. There are different levels of sedation and what is used will depend on each patient’s case.

• Minimal sedation: Is intended to help you relax and remain calm during dental procedures. You will remain aware and responsive while properly breathing on your own.
• Moderate Sedation: For this you may slip in and out of consciousness but will still remain responsive. All other functions like breathing and cardiovascular activities remain unaffected.
• Deep Sedation: This puts you on the edge of consciousness but it is still possible to wake you up. You will hardly have any recollection of the procedure.
• General Anesthesia: It knocks you off completely so that you remain completely unconscious. You will only be able to wake up after the drugs get out of your system. During the time you are out, you will not hear of feel anything.

How to Ensure Sedation is Safe for You

There are a few side effects or complications that have been linked to dental sedation. It has also been observed that different people react differently to different types of sedation. This is why it is important to undergo a comprehensive consultation where the dentists get a clear picture of your situation. Your dentist will get an overall look and your physical and mental wellness as well as probe to find out if you have any allergies or are taking any medications. And since sedation is not always necessary, the information obtained will be used to evaluate your candidacy for dental sedation.

Get a well -trained Eagle Groove dentist to minimize risks and increase effectiveness. A good dentist will be able to determine the dose and sedation method for you. It is also necessary to prepare for any risks by discussing them beforehand so that there are no surprises. Usually, when sedated it important to have all your vital signs closely monitored just to make sure you are okay.

It is common to experience a few side effects after being sedated, but these will usually fade away after a couple of hours or days. The effects include feeling drowsy, headache, low blood pressure, slow reflexes and feeling sluggish. You shouldn’t worry much about these. If you find the effects to be a bother, you can speak to your dentist to see how they can be managed.

Which sedation type is the safest?

There isn’t one type of sedation that works fine for everyone. The best and safest method will be determined by all the information your dentist is able to collect during consultation. The other determining factor is the type of procedure you will be undergoing. Simple procedures often mean use of simple sedation like laughing gas while complex procedures demand a deeper sedation.

Generally, though, IV sedation is often thought to be the riskiest since it leaves you completely conscious. Therefore, if you are not closely monitored the consequences you will be facing may be dire. On the other hand, Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is thought to be the safest, with very complications arising from its use.

Moffit Dental in eagle groove, IA provides you with outstanding services for all types of sedations. If you are looking for a peaceful and comfortable dental experience make an appointment today and we will take care of your dental needs.