Advertising for sedation dentistry is popping up on billboards all over the country. This major trend in the industry is popular for a good reason; it helps ease the common fear of going to the dentist. To understand the appeal of this dentistry, it is best to explain what it is and how it helps.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
The name suggests that this means being put to sleep in the dentist's chair, that isn't entirely true. The word "sedation" is used because there are varying degrees of consciousness that patients have available. Most patients are still awake during the procedures, but general anesthesia is available for people who need to achieve a sleeping state for dental work.
Dentists who advertise this option are providing an option for sedation for every type of procedure, including routine dental cleaning. The dentist will look at the work that needs to be done and any anxieties or special considerations and decide the level of sedation required. The options are:
· Minimal sedation. While the patient is still awake, they are relaxed and able to function normally. The most common form of this sedation is laughing gas.
· Moderate sedation. The patient is still awake and may slur their words, but most likely will not remember any of the dental visits.
· Deep sedation. The patients have consciousness, it's only just barely. Many people still fall asleep but can still be
· General anesthesia. Patients are put into a complete state of unconsciousness during the procedure.
These options have been available for a long time for intensive dental procedures, but now it is widely used to treat all fears and anxieties.
How Sedation Can Help
Three major ways of using sedation can help both a patient and a doctor.
Removes the pain and discomfort. Sedation, even in its mildest form, can relax the muscles of the patient during the procedure. It also helps numb the mouth to decrease any tooth sensitivity pain.
Not remembering the procedure. The root of many people's fear of the dentist comes from a bad experience in the past. Once someone has an unpleasant experience in the dental chair, they don't want to go back. Anything from the smell to the lights in the office can trigger an unpleasant memory. Sedation is helpful because it not only eases anxiety, but it prevents any future bad experiences since patients won't remember the procedure.
Ease of doing the work. For patients with severe anxiety, they have a hard time relaxing in the chair and letting the dentist do their job. Instead of fighting and reasoning with a patient, it is easier to use sedation so the dentist can do the job and get out faster. It is also helpful for people who shake a lot or have a hard time paying attention, like older people with memory problems, little kids, and those who have any kind of impairment.
Finding the Right Dentist
If you feel like you can benefit from trying sedation dentistry, there are plenty of dental offices around that offer it. Start by asking your dentist if they offer it and see what's available. If they don't offer it, ask around for recommendations from family and friends. Since it is such a popular option to provide, chances are good you know at least a few people who have tried it before. If this is what it takes to keep your smile healthy, it's worth the consideration.