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What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is exactly what it sounds like; utilizing a sedation-causing agent during a dental procedure to assist patients in achieving a very relaxed and comfortable state of being.
Odontophobia, or dental phobia, is a serious condition in which a patient has developed an extreme fear of all things related to dental care. According to the Dental Health Magazine article, “Overcoming Dental Fear with Sedation Dentistry,” an estimated 50% of the population experiences some form of dental phobia, which can sometimes cause debilitating anxiety. Unfortunately, this fear often keeps many from receiving the dental treatments they so desperately need.
But thanks to developments in sedation dentistry, anxious patients are finding comfort and relief from this condition. allowing them to receive the care they deserve and get their oral health back on track in a relaxed and virtually painless environment.
Just as there are varying degrees of anxiety, there are a variety of sedation methods available. Miami Dental Sedation Spa specializes in sedation dentistry and the comfortable treatment of fearful patients. There are several sedation options available, all administered by trained and licensed dental professionals. Read below to learn more.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is used with the high fear patient. IV sedation administers anti-anxiety medication directly into the blood stream through a vein. Any patient receiving this form of sedation will remain conscience throughout the procedure, but will likely not be able to recall the experience. A local anesthetic will also be required, as IV sedation doesn’t provide relief from pain.
This type of sedation can only be offered by dentists trained and licensed in the state of Florida for conscious sedation. Patients undergoing long dental procedures often opt for this type of sedation also, to make the appointment for pleasant.
With this method, the licensed dentist has more control over the amount of sedation used than with oral sedation delivery methods. Medicines are delivered through an IV line placed in the arm. Dr. Sanchez has sedated many patients that travel from central and south Florida. A comprehensive exam is necessary previous to the sedation appointment to determine dental needs and medical status of each patient.
Oral Sedation
Pills are taken orally to relieve light to severe fear and anxiety in patients. Any dentist is able to prescribe these medications as long as they follow the strict guidelines set by the American Dental Association (ADA). The patient gets to be in a very relaxed state during the dental procedures.
These are pills taken by mouth approximately 30 minutes to an hour prior to a procedure. Examples include Ativan, Valium, Xanax, and they act in two ways. In higher doses, they not only induce a calming effect, but may also cause drowsiness, but in lower doses, they simply relieve anxious feelings. They do not provide pain relief however, so a local anesthetic may be required.
Nitrous Gas
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is used with patients who have light to medium fear and anxiety of dental treatments. This practice has been safely used for over a century. It is colorless and odorless, and is easily administered by inhaling the gas. With this method, the dentist is in constant control of the depth of sedation a patient experiences. The gas is easily eliminated from the body and only takes approximately 3 to 5 minutes to do so. The patient is able to go home by themselves since the effects are vanished a couple of minutes after the removal of the nasal mask.
Check out this video, featuring one of our patients, to learn more about how sedation dentistry can help you overcome your dental anxiety. And if you have any questions, please give us a call at 305-445-4646.
