Does the thought of sitting in a dentist’s chair fill you with dread? You’re not alone.
According to the Journal of Dental Hygiene, between 50 and 80% of adults in the United States experience some level of dental anxiety. But that doesn’t have to stop you from getting the dental care you need.
Sedation dentistry offers a stress-free and comfortable way to experience dental procedures, no matter how simple or complex.
Ranked as the top dental practice in St. Petersburg, FL by the residents who live in work here, we have many patients overcome their fears with dental sedation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire sedation dentistry experience, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect.
Let’s dive into it:
1. Understanding Sedation Dentistry
Before we get into the specifics of the sedation dentistry experience, let’s first go over what it is and how it works.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a technique used to help patients feel more comfortable during dental procedures. It involves the use of medication, which can be administered in different ways, to induce a state of relaxation and calmness. This allows patients to undergo dental procedures without feeling overly anxious or stressed.
Levels of Sedation Dentistry
Different levels of sedation are used in dentistry, depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of the procedure. These include:
- Minimal Sedation
Minimal sedation, also known as “anxiolysis,” is a mild form of oral sedation that involves taking medication in pill form or through nitrous oxide inhalation. It helps patients feel relaxed and calm while still being awake and able to respond to instructions from the dentist.
- Moderate Sedation
Moderate sedation, also known as “conscious sedation,” is a deeper level of sedation where patients may feel drowsy but can still communicate with the dentist. This type of sedation is commonly administered through an IV line.
- Deep Sedation
Deep sedation is a state between moderate sedation and general anesthesia, where patients are on the brink of unconsciousness. They may still be able to respond to stimuli, but they are less aware and have little to no memory of the procedure. This is commonly administered via IVs in a hospital setting.
General anesthesia is the deepest form of sedation, where patients are completely unconscious throughout the dental procedure. It is typically only used for highly invasive surgical procedures and requires careful monitoring by a licensed anesthesiologist.
Who Benefits from Sedation Dentistry?
Dental sedation is ideal for individuals who:
- Experience significant dental anxiety or phobias
- Require extensive or complex dental work
- Have a low pain threshold or sensitive gag reflexes
- Struggle to sit still for long periods
Sedation dentistry ensures that every patient, regardless of their circumstances, can receive the dental care they need with comfort and confidence.
2. Preparing for Your Appointment
Here’s what you can expect before undergoing dental sedation:
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a consultation. At Bayway Dental, Dr. Sherberg carefully reviews your medical history, discusses any concerns, and determines the best sedation method for your specific needs. This is also your chance to ask questions and gain a clear understanding of the process.
Pre-Appointment Instructions
Your dentist may provide you with specific instructions to ensure everything goes smoothly. This may include:
- Avoiding food and drinks before your appointment
- Arranging transportation to and from the clinic
- Taking any prescribed medications as directed
Following these instructions will help ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your sedation.
3. What to Expect on the Day of the Procedure
On the day of your procedure, it’s normal to feel nervous or anxious. However, you can rest assured that your safety and comfort are top priorities for your dental team. Here’s what you can expect:
Arrival at the Office
On the day of your appointment, you’ll check in, sign any required consent forms, and discuss final details with your dentist. Make sure to inform them if you have had a change in health since your consultation.
Administration of Sedation
Your dentist will administer the sedation method that was previously discussed and agreed upon during your consultation. Throughout the procedure, the dental team will closely monitor your vitals to ensure your safety and comfort.
4. Recovery After Sedation Dentistry
After your dental procedure, you will need monitoring until the effects of the sedation wear off. This may take a few hours, so having someone with you to drive you home and stay with you for the rest of the day is important.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, it’s common to experience some side effects after sedation dentistry, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or nausea. These should subside within a few hours and can be managed with rest and hydration.
Be sure to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your dentist to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Make sure to also attend any follow-up appointments as recommended by your dental team.
5. Common Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Is Dental Sedation Safe?
Yes. Sedation dentistry is considered safe when performed by a trained and qualified dental professional. Dentists follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety.
How Long Does the Sedation Last?
The duration depends on the type of sedation. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, while oral and IV sedatives may take several hours to completely leave your system.
Does Insurance Cover Sedation Dentistry?
It depends on your insurance coverage. Some dental plans may cover sedation dentistry for certain procedures, while others may not. It’s best to check with your insurance company beforehand.
The Wrap Up
As you can see, sedation dentistry offers a safe and effective way to manage dental anxiety and discomfort. If you have been avoiding necessary dental treatment due to fear or anxiety, talk to your dentist about sedation options that may be available to you.
At Bayway Dental, Dr. Sherberg has advanced training in Oral Conscious Sedation (OCS) and IV Sedation. He is a certified DOCS member. He works alongside a licensed anesthesiologist regularly during IV Sedation appointments.
Rest assured, our entire team is well-trained and experienced in providing sedation dentistry to our patients. It’s helped many people overcome their fears of the dentist. Often, these same patients end up not needing any sedation after a few appointments! So don’t let fear or anxiety hold you back from achieving a healthy smile – contact us today to learn more about sedation dentistry and how it can benefit you!
