Dental anxiety is a common condition that prevents many people from going to the dentist. Many fearful patients are nervous due to pain, sensitive teeth, or other bad experiences. Some patients have an overactive gag reflex or difficulty remaining still. Sedation dentistry is a great procedure that helps reduce concerns and makes a visit easier and more pleasant, regardless of age.
If you believe there will be anxiety before dental appointments, it is very important to work with a dentist in Markham you can trust. A good dentist will be able to assess your needs and the type of procedure being done to recommend the best form of sedation for you.
What Sedation Dentistry Is
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medicine to help patients remain calm during their dental treatment. It is often recommended for fearful patients, patients with low pain tolerance, and any patient undergoing a more complex treatment. Patients that seek out sedation dentistry near you are often looking for a more relaxed and stress-free type of dental care. Sedation dentistry helps patients receive the necessary dental treatment while remaining calm, safe, and in control during their visit.
Sedation is also commonly used for dentistry for special needs people. Often it helps with the management of special needs patients while visiting the dentist. The amount and type of sedation used in each sedation procedure are dependent upon patient preference and health history. Light sedation may be adequate and allow the patient to feel at ease, while moderate or deeper forms of sedation may work better for other patients. Different routes of sedation include a pill, nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”), or intravenous (IV) medication.
Benefits of Light Sedation for Dental Anxiety
Light sedation is a safe and effective option for those who feel nervous but would like to remain awake and aware during their dental treatment. Many benefits of light sedation for dental anxiety include. a reduction of stress, increased comfort, and greater toleration for longer, more detailed procedures. It is important to visit a Markham dentist near you that offers sedation and follows clinical guidelines.
Light Sedation does allow patients to relax while not putting them to sleep. Light sedation is typically used for routine, uncomplicated dental work such as cleaning, filling cavities, or examination. Many fearful dental patients feel that with light sedation, they are developing some confidence and ability to make dental visits in the future.
How IV Moderate Sedation Works in Dentistry
In cases where patients have intense anxiety or would like a longer, more complicated dental appointment, IV sedation may be the solution. Understanding how IV moderate sedation works can alleviate anxiety and concerns. IV moderate sedation is delivered by a small needle placed in the arm or hand and works quickly in the patient’s system to help the patient feel calmer and drowsy.
The patient will remain conscious but will feel very relaxed and may or may not remember most of the treatment. During the entire dental appointment, IV sedation is carefully monitored to ensure patient safety and comfort. IV moderate sedation is commonly used for root canals, tooth extractions, and longer appointments.
Preparing for Sedation Dentistry Appointment
It is important to follow instructions when preparing for a sedation dentistry appointment. Your dental team will guide you through the steps. You may be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before your visit. You will also need someone to drive you home afterward if you are receiving oral or IV sedation.
Before the appointment, the dentist will review your medical history, allergies, and current medications to choose the safest and most effective type of sedation for your needs.
Sedation Safety Measures Dentist Office Follows
Dentists who provide sedation must follow all sedation safety measures and dentist office guidelines to protect your health. These include using the right equipment, closely watching your breathing and heart rate, and having trained staff on hand at all times.
Sedation is considered very safe when used correctly. Patients may be confident that their dental care will be given safely and comfortably if they work with the correct team.
What to Expect After Dental Sedation
Knowing what to expect after dental sedation helps you prepare for recovery. Most patients feel drowsy or a little confused right after their procedure. These effects usually wear off after a few hours, but it is best to rest for the rest of the day. You should avoid driving, using heavy equipment, or making important decisions until the medication has completely worn off.
Your dental team will give you aftercare instructions to follow once you are home. This helps ensure a smooth and safe recovery.
Comfortable Care with Markville Dental
If you are generally uncomfortable with the idea of going to the dentist or experience dental anxiety, sedation dentistry offers you the opportunity to receive the care you need without fear or stress. There is the possibility for mild sedation for common routine treatments, through to moderate sedation for more complex procedures. Sedation options are available for every individual patient.
At Markville Dental, we will be able to provide safe and gentle sedation so that you will be able to have a more enjoyable and relaxed experience at the dentist. We welcome you to book an appointment by contacting us as soon as possible to talk about your sedation options.
