5 Critical Things You Need to Know About Sedation

Would You Rather be Asleep for Dental Treatment?

If you would then you are not on your own because millions of people around the world are scared of not only facing dental treatment but even heading into the dentist’s office period. It scares many people to the point at which they struggle to even get through the door.

Sleeping all the way through dental treatment or even being completely numb is not always a good idea though. So when is it a good idea? When should you forgo sedation?

Do not worry if you cannot answer these questions just yet. This page will answer the five most pressing questions you have about sedation and give you the information you need to make an informed decision next time your dentist offers it.
To Sedate or Not to Sedate… That is the Question!

Dentists do offer sedation for a number of purposes these days. For example, if you suffer from panic attacks or extreme anxiety when visiting the dentist then you may be offered sedation to help calm your nerves. Obviously you will also be offered sedation if you have to have treatment that requires extraction or similar invasive procedures that cause a degree of pain.

The problem with sedation is that there are so many options and so many things that you need to know before you make a decision. This special report is designed to make sure that you know the essential points so read on to find out whether sedation is a good idea or not.

#1 – Methods of Sedation

Sedation comes in a variety of types in dentistry but so many people fail to ask about what is being used on them. Obviously nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is commonly used for extractions and other similar procedures but a little sedative may be injected into an individual site if reconstruction, wisdom teeth extraction or root canals are part of the treatment plan.

In addition to there being several methods of sedation, there are plenty of different drugs that can be used for it. Propofol. Ketamine, atomidate, midazolam and fentanyl may all be used for sedation so the best thing to do is ask the dentist what he or she commonly uses because preferences do make an impact.

#2 – What are the Risks?

As long as you aren’t allergic to the medication used, there are almost no risks but the doctor will inform you of them at your appointment.

#3 – Is Anxiety a Valid Reason for Sedation?

Of course!  Only you know how you feel.

There are alternatives to full sedation such as laughing gas.  Talk to your Dentist!

#4 – Can a Dentist Withhold Sedation?

Yes, your dentist can. If he or she thinks that there are any risks associated with administering sedation drugs then he or she is under absolutely no obligation to give it to you.

However, by the same token, you are not obliged to have any treatment without sedation if you want it. You can refuse treatment if you have requested sedation and it has not been given so you should never feel out of control.

Also, you should note that only trained dentists are allowed to administer IV or drip and oral sedation.

#5 – What is Oral Conscious Sedation?

You might be asking this question if you have recently read one of the many articles on it because it is all the rage in dentistry for those that suffer from anxiety. It is basically self administered sedation that you take an hour before you go to see the dentist. Halcion is one of the most popular sedatives taken in this way.

There are problems with oral conscious sedation though. For example, you can respond to questions and remain awake but cannot remember any of your trip to the dentist.  There are also likely to be other risks as there are few studies on it as yet but do a little homework if you are considering going this way.

In conclusion, consider sedation if you have anxiety about any dental procedures. You go to sleep then wake up when it’s over

Just some of the ways We make you feel good about coming here

1) To have your dentist care about you and make you feel good

• We will call you after your procedures to make sure everything is ok.
• We will walk you through all of your procedures and fears so that you are comfortable
• We care about your time as well.
• Thank you to everyone that compliments us on our short or NO waiting times.
• You are in good hands…Emergencies are handled promptly no matter how busy we are.
• And most importantly, we aim to make your visit as relaxing and enjoyable as possible

2) To ease your fears and help you, even if you are nervous?

If you fear coming to the dentist, you are not alone. Whatever your fear about coming to see us, let us know. Just some of the ways we make you feel comfortable here:
1. We will walk you through the entire procedure to make sure you know what’s going to happen.
2. We will tell you what to expect in terms of freezing – which a lot of people are most anxious about.
3. You can be sedated and completely asleep!
4. We encourage you to bring an mp3 player to listen to your favourite music.
5. Finally, if you are very anxious, then we may prescribe a sedative.

3) Your kids to have a fun experience and get healthy?

We welcome kids of all ages. We love hearing from kids and their parents how much fun they had at our office.