There are people who feel anxious when undergoing dental procedures; thankfully, sedation dentistry can help in this regard. Medication can be used to relax patients during dental procedures. The types of sedation dentistry include oral sedation, inhalation sedation, and intravenous sedation dentistry.
Dental patients who experience generalized anxiety, specifically the fear of sharp instruments and needles or belonephobia, can benefit from sedation dentistry. It’s good to know that stress and anxiety can now be addressed through sedation dentistry, making people confident about undergoing dental consultations and procedures.
In this post, you’ll learn about the sedation industry, including its benefits and impacts on your overall dental health.
What Is Oral Sedation Dentistry?
Sedative drugs are administered to anxious patients through the oral route in oral sedation dentistry. It is the common method employed to keep the patient conscious during the procedure. Because some people experience anxiety-related insomnia the night before the dental procedure, dentists usually prescribe anti-anxiety medications taken the night before and another dose an hour before the appointment.
Here are some of the anti-anxiety medications used in oral sedation dentistry:
- Diazepam: One commonly used brand of diazepam is Valium, which has long half-life sedative or amnesic properties. This drug is usually prescribed to anxious patients before undergoing extensive dentistry.
- Lorazepam: Ativan is a popular anti-anxiety drug that possesses the desirable effects of benzodiazepines, with a medium length half-life. This medication is usually prescribed for dental appointments that last for two hours or more.
- Triazolam: Halcion, a triazolam brand, is a recommended treatment for insomnia. This can be given in conjunction with antihistamines.
- Midazolam: One example is Versed, which has the shortest half-life among benzodiazepines. The effects last for about an hour, perfect for simple and short dental appointments.
- Hydroxyzine: The brand name Vistaril is an antihistamine with anxiolytic or anti-anxiety effects that is given with benzodiazepines. This drug does not cause sedation.
Inhalation Sedation Dentistry
Inhalation sedation or “happy air” refers to light sedation, which involves administering a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide breathed via a nosepiece. It helps pediatric patients feel more relaxed before undergoing a dental procedure.
Take note that inhalation sedation is not the same as general anesthesia. Learn more about sedation dentistry by Alligator Pediatric Dentistry to best prepare your child for this procedure.
Check out these quick facts about inhalation sedation:
1. What will my child feel or experience during the inhalation sedation?
During inhalation sedation, the patient feels more relaxed. A feeling of drowsiness usually kicks in, but the patient would still be awake, as well as feel slightly warm. They may also experience tingling sensations in the hands and feet. The patient stays conscious or awake throughout the dental procedure and is able to talk.
2. How quickly does inhalation sedation work?
It takes about a few minutes for inhalation sedation to take effect. The recovery period also takes a few minutes. This procedure is generally safe and recommended for children.
3. How do I prepare my child for inhalation sedation?
Make sure to arrange the dental appointment early, when your child is less tired, to help reduce stress and anxiety. If your child suddenly develops a cold, contact the dentist immediately because inhalation sedation won’t work in the presence of cold because the nose is blocked.
Before undergoing the treatment, you’ll be asked to sign a written consent. Read it carefully to ensure that all terms are clear.
4. What should I do on the day of the dental procedure?
Your child should wear loose clothing on the day of the procedure. Your child can take a light meal an hour before the procedure. Fasting before inhalation sedation is not required.
Here are the other preparation tips before and after inhalation sedation:
- Don’t give oily or greasy food to your child because it will make them nauseous during the dental treatment.
- Inform the dentist if there are changes in the medication or health condition of your child.
- After inhalation of the treatment, your child should temporarily avoid physically taxing activities, like dancing, swimming, and skating.
Intravenous Sedation Dentistry
Dental anxiety is real, and one way to conquer it is through sedation dentistry via IV route. Intravenous sedation or IV sedation refers to a dental procedure performed while the patient is under a sedative drug, which is given through an intravenous injection. Intravenous sedation dentistry is commonly known as “twilight dentistry” or “sleep dentistry”.
Here are some important things you need to know about IV sedation dentistry:
- In sleep dentistry, the patient is put in a sleep-like state. It’s completely different from surgical procedures under general anesthesia.
- Upon waking up, the patient will feel no pain and as if no time has passed.
- Only trained dentists should perform sleep dentistry using this method.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
1. Is it true that amnesia may result from IV sedation dentistry?
Yes. It is because intravenous sedation is powerful enough to cause conscious sedation. Patients may experience moderate to high amnesia levels. After the procedure, the patient may be slightly drowsy, which subsides within several hours.
2. Will I feel pain during the dental procedure when under sedation dentistry?
No. The combination of anti-anxiety medications and anesthetic is strong to eliminate any pain.
3. Is sedation dentistry safe for everyone?
Sedation dentistry is generally safe. However, people with obstructive apnea, obesity, or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor first and collaborate with the dentist for overall health and safety.
4. Will I be put to sleep while undergoing a root canal?
No. Root canal is like getting a tooth filling, and local anesthesia is used to numb the area around the tooth. For extremely anxious patients, oral sedation dentistry will suffice.
Conclusion
Sedation dentistry continuously helps anxious patients overcome fear and anxiety associated with different dental procedures. From oral prophylaxis, tooth extraction, and to more extensive dental procedures, various forms of sedation dentistry can be administered depending on the patient’s needs.
Oral sedation is recommended for simple procedures. Pediatric patients, on the other hand, can benefit from inhalation sedation dentistry, as well as adults who will undergo simple and short dental procedures. On the other hand, intravenous sedation is recommended for extensive dental procedures.
