Sedation in dentistry
Sedation dentistry keeps you comfortable during dental procedures. It is helpful for people who have dental anxiety or for those undergoing long treatments. Options include nitrous oxide, conscious oral sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation. Dentists must be specially certified to provide some forms of sedation dentistry.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry helps you feel relaxed and at ease during dental procedures. It is a moderate level of sedation, so you are still technically awake but feel relaxed. It is sometimes called conscious sedation dentistry because it induces a short-term state of amnesia (amnesia) in which you feel insensitive to pain without losing consciousness.
Who needs sedation dentistry?
People of all ages, including children, can benefit from sedation dentistry. Dentists often recommend this option for those who have:
Anxiety about dental or gum surgery or procedures.
Fear of going to the dentist
A hypersensitive gag reflex.
Fear of needles (aichmophobia).
Extreme tooth sensitivity
Feeling claustrophobic when sitting in the dentist’s chair.
Reduced sensitivity to local anesthesia.
Difficulty controlling movements.
Special needs (including physical, cognitive, or behavioral).
What type of sedation is used in dentistry?
There are different levels of sedation dentistry based on your unique needs. Factors include your anxiety level, length of procedure, health history, and personal preferences. The most common types of sedation dentistry include nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is commonly known as “laughing gas.” You inhale nitrous oxide through a mask or nasal device, and the sedating effects begin within three to five minutes. Your dentist will monitor the amount of sedation you receive and adjust the doses accordingly during the procedure. After the treatment is complete, your dentist will give you pure oxygen to help flush the nitrous oxide out of your system. Since laughing gas leaves your system quickly, you can go home after your procedure.
Oral Conscious Sedation
With oral conscious sedation, your dentist will give you a sedative (usually in pill form) about an hour before the procedure. Most dentists use triazolam, which is in the diazepam family. But your dentist may also use other medications, including zaleplon and lorazepam. Dentists often use liquid sedatives in pediatric dentistry, such as midazolam oral syrup.
Oral sedation will make you completely drowsy and you may even fall asleep. But you will still be able to communicate with your dentist if necessary and you will wake up with a gentle movement. Because oral sedation temporarily affects your memory and motor skills, you will need a friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure.
Intravenous (IV) sedation.
IV sedation dentistry is the deepest form of conscious sedation available in the dental office. Your healthcare provider delivers sedation medication directly into your bloodstream through an IV line. During the procedure, the dentist will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. They can adjust your dose at any point and can use reversal medications if necessary. Most people who receive IV sedation will fall asleep and have no memory of their treatment when they wake up. This option is best for people who have severe dental anxiety or those who are undergoing long procedures.
What happens during sedation dentistry?
Your dentist will give you sedation medication before the procedure begins. You will still receive a local anesthetic to numb your teeth and gums, but your dentist will usually do this when you feel comfortable with the sedation.
What happens after sedation?
Unless you choose nitrous oxide as your sedation option, you will need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after your appointment. You should go straight home and rest until the sedative wears off.
Note: Never take a taxi or ride home after sedation. You will need someone you trust and know to help you. The driver should make sure you are comfortably resting in bed or on your couch before leaving you alone.
What are the benefits of sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry reduces anxiety and phobias and helps you feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures. Since your dentist often works faster when you are sedated, it can lead to fewer appointments. Ultimately, many people have so much dental anxiety that they avoid going to the dentist altogether. Sedation dentistry helps you feel more comfortable so you can receive the care you need and deserve.
