Most medical procedures bring with them a level of anxiety for the patient. For many people, this is especially true for dental procedures.
As most dental procedures do not warrant total unconsciousness via general anesthetic, patients are typically conscious during a procedure. As a result, ensuring that the patient remains relaxed and free from both pain and stress throughout the process is vital. This begins with a human touch and building a relationship between the patient and dental practitioner on a foundation of warmth, empathy, and communication. During the actual procedure, meanwhile, keeping a patient free of pain and anxiety can be achieved through sedation dentistry.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients feel relaxed, comfortable, and pain-free during lengthy or invasive dental procedures. These medications can be administered in different ways, with the type of sedation used depending on the patient's needs and preferences and the length and complexity of the procedure. There are different levels of non-general anaesthesia sedation that are used in dentistry, with effects ranging from mild to quite deep:
- Nitrous Oxide, or laughing gas', is administered through a mask over the nose and helps patients relax during relatively minor procedures.
- Oral Sedatives, like Valium and Halcion, are prescribed for a patient to take prior to an appointment.
- IV Sedation, which is administered directly into the bloodstream, induces a deeper relaxation, with patients often having little recollection of the procedure, most commonly used during tooth extractions and root canals.
Is Sedation Safe?
When administered by a trained professional, yes, sedation is considered to be safe.
However, as with any surgical or invasive procedure, sedation can have certain risks, such as allergic reactions and respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Thus, before proceeding, it’s important to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Stress-Free Dentistry in Warners Bay
If you are in the Warners Bay, NSW area and would like to learn more about whether sedation dentistry might be appropriate for you, the team at SmilesHQ is available to arrange an appointment.