Anesthesia

DENTAL SEDATION

Many Americans do not visit the dentist for regular checkups because they are too fearful or suffer from dental anxiety. Sedation dentistry offers an excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety-free dental experience to those afraid of the dentist.

Sedation dentistry is often mistakenly thought to induce sleep. Most sedatives allow the patient to stay awake during the procedure. Sleepiness is a side effect of some medications, but nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation only work to calm anxiety throughout the dental visit.

Sedation dentistry is popular because most sedatives can be taken by mouth, meaning no injections, no anxiety, and no pain. Some sedatives work so effectively that even the smells and details of the procedure cannot be recalled afterward. Safety and compliance are two important aspects of treatments, so sedation dentistry offers both the individual and the dentist the best alternative.

Whatever the form of sedative, it is essential to be accompanied by a caregiver. Sometimes, sedatives are provided the night before the dental visit, so driving to or from the appointment is not advisable.

ADVANTAGES TO SEDATION DENTISTRY:

Anxiety is alleviated.
Few side effects.
More can be accomplished during each visit.
No needles.

No pain.
Perfectly safe.
Procedures take less time.

WHAT KINDS OF SEDATIVES ARE AVAILABLE?

The most popular dental sedatives are nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Different levels of sedation (mild, moderate, and profound) can be utilized depending on individual needs. Before administering any sedative, the dentist must analyze the patient's medical history, taking note of any current medications.

Here is an overview of some of the most common types of dental sedatives:

NITROUS OXIDE

Nitrous oxide, or "laughing gas," is a mild sedative. It is delivered through a nose hood and administered throughout the procedure. Nitrous oxide elevates the general mood and can evoke a general sense of well-being. Most importantly, it relieves anxiety and reduces pain during the process. In addition, some tingling and numbness may be felt. There are few side effects associated with nitrous oxide, and it has been safely used in dentistry for many years.

IV SEDATION

Intravenous sedation is a moderate type of sedation. Patients who have previously experienced IV sedation often report feeling like they slept through the entire procedure. Generally, IV sedation is used for shorter treatments. It is administered via direct injection into the bloodstream, which means immediate effects. Sometimes patients feel groggy and sleepy when the IV sedatives are withdrawn. This is why it is essential to bring a designated driver for the drive home.

ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION

Oral conscious sedation is an excellent choice for people who fear needles. Oral medication is provided before treatment to induce a moderate state of sedation. Though oral sedatives do not cause sleep, they usually dull the senses. This means that most patients cannot remember the pain, smells, or noises associated with the procedure. Usually, a dose of medication is taken before the appointment and then topped up during the procedure as required.

WHAT TYPES OF DRUGS ARE USED IN ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION?

Most of the drugs used in sedation dentistry are classified as benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines reduce anxiety, muscle spasms, insomnia, and seizures. Each medication has a different half-life, meaning the effects last for varying amounts. The estimated length of the procedure determines which type of drug will be most effective.

Here are some of the most common drugs used in oral conscious sedation:

Valium® – This sedative has amnesic properties and a long half-life. It is usually used for time-consuming, complex procedures.

Halcion® – Usually used to treat insomnia, Halcion is an effective sedative with amnesic properties. A short half-life makes this sedative useful for faster procedures.

Ativan® – This sedative is best known for reducing anxiety. It has amnesic properties and a medium half-life. Ativan is typically used for treatments shorter than two hours.

Versed® – This sedative has the shortest half-life and is, therefore, less commonly used. It alleviates anxiety in much the same way as nitrous oxide and is used for visits that will take less than 30 minutes.