It’s estimated that roughly 36% of the population has some level of dental anxiety or fear. Further, about 12% suffer from extreme dental fear, making it nearly impossible to complete routine checkups without professional aid. This is where sedation dentistry comes in. If you’ve never received it before, you may be wondering what it feels like. To learn more about the experience and how to choose the right strength of sedation, keep reading!
What Exactly is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is essentially a suite of techniques designed to alleviate the most common side effects that come with dental anxiety or fear. Keep in mind that while sedation dentistry is typically used for those feeling nervous or anxious ahead of their appointment, it can be quite helpful in a variety of cases. For example, those with a sensitive gag reflex, low pain tolerance, or cognitive disabilities could benefit from sedation dentistry.
However, not all sedation methods are the same. In fact, they can vary quite significantly both in strength and administration. If you’ve never received sedation dentistry or you’re being recommended sedation, it helps to better understand your options.
Available Options for Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is not designed to put you to sleep in the same way that general anesthesia does. Whether you receive nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, you’ll be able to communicate with the dentist and inform them of your comfort levels so they can make adjustments as needed. With that said, the way you’ll feel under each sedation option can vary.
Nitrous Oxide
This gas-based sedative is gently inhaled through a nasal mask and creates a light tingling sensation and subtle numbness throughout the body. You’ll feel quite relaxed as soon as you begin breathing in the mixture and be more than capable of continuing your day without interruption after the mask is removed.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For more moderate levels of anxiety, receiving oral conscious sedation is as simple as taking a pill ahead of your appointment. The effects are stronger than nitrous oxide and longer lasting, which means you’ll need to have a friend or family member drive you to and from the office.
IV Sedation
IV sedation stands for “intravenous sedation” because the sedative is administered directly into the bloodstream. As a result, you can expect to feel extremely relaxed throughout your procedure. The surgeon can even adjust the amount of sedation you receive on the fly depending on your needs. Plus, the sedative’s effects are instantaneous once it begins transferring to the bloodstream. However, you will need someone to drive you home after your appointment.
Should You Consider General Anesthesia?
Many dental practices can provide a combination of the first three sedation options, but it’s rare they are able to offer general anesthesia. This method does put you to sleep and is generally reserved for hospital settings. However, if you have a family member with major physical or cognitive disabilities, feel free to ask about general anesthesia.
Still have questions about sedation dentistry? Speak with a dentist today to learn more ahead of your future treatment!
About Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery
The dentists of Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery are all board-certified, meaning they have taken the initiative to prove their high level of knowledge and expertise within their fields. At NOVA, they provide not only sedation dentistry, but general anesthesia, to help you or your loved ones remain as comfortable as possible. To schedule an appointment, you can contact them through their website.