If the thought of going to the dentist keeps you from scheduling your first dental exam, then maybe you should consider finding a sedation dentist. Sedation dentistry services use intravenous or oral medications that ease your anxiety once you are in the chair. The goal is not to relieve your pain as much as it is to relieve your fear of the pain.
Fear of seeing the dentist is an actual phobia that can terrorize a person. Consequently, they will never get teeth cleaning, teeth whitening, or any other service or even a checkup. A sedation dentist may solve the issue. Finding a sedation dentist is easier than you think, as many dentists offer this type of service. Let’s explore sedation dentistry more closely.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
The purpose of sedation dentistry is to help you relax while the dentist is performing a dental service. Conscious sedation occurs when you are relaxed to the point where you have little memory of the procedure or any concept of time. An appointment that lasts for two hours may only seem like minutes.
If you have a shorter visit, you may want to use oral sedation. IV sedation is more ideal if you are going to be in the dentist’s chair for a few hours. Your dentist can provide the right level of sedation depending on your condition, projected level of pain, or how long the procedure will last.
Levels of Sedation
There are multiple levels of sedation that specialty dental services in Kohrville, TX use including:
Minimal
You sit in the dentist’s chair fully conscious and feeling very relaxed. The dentist gives you nitrous oxide which takes your anxiety away. Once the procedure is complete, you will receive oxygen for up to 10 minutes. When it is over, you can get up and drive home, unaffected by the nitrous oxide.
Moderate
Under conscious sedation, you will feel relaxed and in a dream state or deep sleep. However, you will be able to breathe on your own and perform basic bodily functions. You may have little memory of the procedure. You will wake up feeling refreshed.
Deep
Deep sedation is often used for more intense procedures that may last two or more hours. Deep sedation is ideal for oral surgery. You will fall into a deep sleep and have zero memory of the procedure. You will also be given a breathing tube to assist you with respiratory function.
General Anesthesia
This is the same level of sedation that hospitals use. General anesthesia is used for the most intense oral medical procedures. As such, it is used sparingly and only when absolutely needed. You will have no memory of the procedure and wake up relaxed.
Are You a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
When finding a sedation dentist, you first need to determine if sedation dentistry is right for you. There are several reasons why you should consider sedation dentistry, such as:
- You have a low threshold for pain
- A severe gag reflex is a problem
- You have difficulty sitting for long periods
- You are hypersensitive to dental work (sight, taste, smell)
- You do not want any memory of your visit
In addition, you may have experienced dentistry-related trauma in the past. If so, your Kohrville, TX dentist can provide sedation dentistry to help you get through your next procedure.
Learn More About Finding a Sedation Dentist
If you would like to learn more about finding a sedation dentist, then contact a sedation dentist in your area. With the right sedation, you can get the treatment you need to improve your smile and the function of your teeth.