Sedation Dentist: Moving Away From Fear

Sep 18
15:59

2011

Ace Abbey

Ace Abbey

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Are you the type of person that becomes wracked with fear when you think about getting into the dental chair? If so, a sedation dentist might be the right type of...

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Are you the type of person that becomes wracked with fear when you think about getting into the dental chair? If so,Sedation Dentist: Moving Away From Fear Articles a sedation dentist might be the right type of dental professional for you. If you have dealt with tooth pain, bleeding gums, and other oral health issues yourself because you’re too afraid to see a professional, this could be the revolution you’ve been waiting for. Believe it or not, you’re far from alone. Millions suffer from the same sort of anxiety. Using safe and sanctioned sedatives can be a way to calm this anxiety and get the treatment you’ve been missing out on.

A lot of people face confusion when they first hear about the concept of a sedation dentist. Does it mean using anesthesia, such as would be the case in a major surgery? Or is it more akin to Novocain, where a small area is numbed? Well, the truth is that sedatives used in dentistry are really not similar to either extreme. The point is not to provide localized or general pain relief, but rather to aid the patient in relaxing throughout the appointment. To what extent this is done will depend both on the dental office and the patient’s level of anxiety.

Generally speaking, there are four main levels used by a sedation dentist. The first level is "minimal", where the patient is fully awake, but able to relax in a way they might not otherwise be able to. The second level is "moderate", where the patient will be awake, but may feel a sensation similar to being drunk. They might slur their words if called upon to speak and it may be difficult to remember the appointment at a later time. Finally, there is “deep” sedation. This takes the patient right the very edge of unconsciousness, but not so far deep that the doctor cannot awaken the patient if need be. In some cases, general anesthesia is used, but this is typically reserved for surgeries.

The methods used to apply the sedation will also vary from one sedation dentist to another. Some prefer to use a gas, while others prefer to give out the sedatives in pill form. Still others may prefer to dispense the medicine through an IV drip. If you have a preference for one form or another, make sure you speak up, as they may be willing to accommodate any special needs you may have.

Is this method of dentistry for everyone who feels anxious about an appointment? Perhaps not. Make sure you take the time to talk over the decision with your regular dentist so you can be sure it is the right step for you.

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