Sedation in Dentistry: Everything You Need To Know

A lot of people associate dentistry with pain. A person can be going through a lot of pain because of a tooth and still fail to visit a dentist, thinking he will cause him more pain. Well, if you still believe that you are wrong. Dentistry in the modern world is practically painless. The anesthesia used nowadays very strong.

If you fear sedation because you will be out and you won’t know what is going on, you can opt for conscious sedation. A type of sedation where you are conscious, but you are not feeling any pain. It is all a matter of choice. This article will help you understand more on this topic, which will help you deal with the fear of the dentist.

What to Expect Before Treatment Procedure

Once you visit a dental clinic with any dental problem, expect to be welcomed warmly by the staff. You might even be offered something to drink. Once your turn comes, you will be called to the office. The dentist will ask you a few simple questions to set you in the mood.

After the problem has been identified, he will ask you to choose between the available sedation methods. You might go for oral sedation, nitrous oxide, or IV sedation. Each has its strengths and weakness.

It is wise to bring someone with you when going for treatment. You will most probably need a ride home, and having comes handy.

Ensure to avoid smoking for at least 14 hours before going for the treatment. Also, don’t take any medication before going for the treatment unless you have been allowed to by a dental professional. Going against what you are told may affect how the sedation works.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Most people choose IV sedation, so we will discuss what goes on with this sedation option. The doctor will give you the medications via IV so that they can be pushed directly to your blood and start working straight away.

The sedation is likely to be mixed with anti-inflammatory medicine and sedatives. You will be heavily sedated, and you are unlikely to know what will be going on. However, some people still feel some discomfort. If that happens to you, the doctor will adjust the sedation appropriately.

If you go for nitrous oxide or oral sedation, you will be awake the whole time, but you will rarely feel any pain. Most people find it uncomfortable watching someone drill into them; that’s why they prefer deep sedation. Whichever you prefer, you can be sure it will be painless.

What to Expect After the Treatment Procedure

After deep sedation, it is common for a person to feel drowsy. So if you get drowsy, don’t panic because it is just normal, and most people go through the same. The anesthesia is likely to last long after the procedure, that’s why it is very wise to have a person drive you home.

You will still be numb for some time. If you can avoid eating until you are okay, it will be of great help. It is possible to bite yourself since you can’t feel pain if you are numb. Biting injuries can lead to infections, and you don’t want that. Eat after the numbness is gone and try to eat soft foods in the first 24-48 hours.

Avoid driving for the first 24 to 36 hours after the treatment. The sedation might still be in your blood, and it can make you cause an accident. It is also wise not to make a critical decision until after about 36 hours. The sedation may alter your rationality.

Side Effects

Sedation has some side effects, but not everyone goes through the same side effects. Some of them include:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling lightheaded

Being unable to drive. You might be able you drive but fail to follow the basic traffic rules. That’s why it is always wise to have someone drive you home after the treatment.

Encanto Family Dental Care

For the best dental services in Phoenix, AZ , this is the place to be. Dr. Randall and his team are ready to help you. We provide services such as dental cleanings, dental bridges, crowns, veneers, root canals, and other services. Please get in contact with us and be helped.