Dental anxiety is one of the main reasons many people lose their natural teeth. Brushing and flossing are not always enough to keep cavities at bay, especially for the back teeth that are hard to reach. That’s why it is essential to visit the dentist every six months for exams and cleanings.
Unfortunately, some people suffer from dental anxiety because they’ve been led to believe that all dental procedures are painful. It might have been true many years ago, but not anymore. Sedation dentistry has ensured that all dental procedures are as painless as possible.
This blog will discuss sedation in detail to help you make an informed decision. You can count on us if you are looking for affordable sedation dentistry near you in Port Charlotte.
What is Dental Sedation?
It is the use of anesthetic drugs to prevent pain and provide a calm and comfortable experience during dental procedures. There are different types of sedation, and the dentist will use the type that suits your problem the most. Here are the most common types of sedation.
Types of Dental Sedation
At R. Boyd Gilleland DDS, we practice safe sedation dentistry. Your health and wellness are always our top priority. Here are the main types of sedation you can find in our modern clinic.
Laughing Gas
Laughing gas is, by far, the most common type of sedation. Typically, laughing gas is used on individuals who don’t feel comfortable on the dentist’s chair. The gas helps the patient feel at ease, and the dentist can perform the procedure with fewer distractions. The effect of the gas is mild and only lasts for a few minutes. That said, it can make your laugh, just as its name suggests.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is taken pretty much like you take other drugs like painkillers or antibiotics. Typically, it takes some time before it takes effect. Therefore, it is usually administered an hour or so before the procedure. You will be conscious during the procedure, but you will not feel any pain.
We recommend coming with someone to drive you home if your procedure requires the use of oral sedation. The effects of the medication can last up to 48 hours. This affects your decision-making. Driving under the influence of sedation drugs increases the risk of causing an accident. On that note, don’t make critical decisions after taking sedation for at least 48 hours.
IV Sedation
IV sedation renders the patient unconscious, and it is rarely used in most dental procedures. It is only used for advanced dental procedures such as impacted tooth extraction. Furthermore, not all dentists are allowed to administer IV sedation. Like oral sedation, the effects last in the body for up to 48 hours. Have someone drive you home after the procedure. If you don’t have someone to drive you, call a cab.
How Does Sedation Work?
The basics of how sedation works are very simple, It prevents you from feeling pain by modifying a certain nerve in the central nervous system. By modifying its function, your body relaxes and slows down brain activity. This means the nerve does not communicate to the brain that you “should” be feeling pain while the dentist conducts the procedure.
Once you are sedated, you will not feel any pain in the mouth during the procedure and a few hours after. For that reason, don’t take foods that require a lot of chewing three hours or so after the procedure. You might end up biting your tongue, and you won’t even feel it. Take soft foods such as ice cream.
Is Sedation Safe?
Yes, sedation is very safe. It is not associated with any severe side effects, and it can even be used on children. However, it is essential to provide the dentist with the correct information about your overall health. That way, he can know how your body reacts to different types of sedation.
Who Can Use Sedation?
- Any person with past traumatic experiences in dental clinics
- Anyone suffering from dental anxiety.
- Individuals requiring advanced dental procedures such as root canal and dental implant
- Anyone afraid of needles can use oral sedation.
A Dentist You Can Trust
Dr. R. Boyd Gilleland is here for you if you are looking for an emergency dentist in Port Charlotte. We can help you with all types of dental services, including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative procedures. Book an appointment now.