Many people are afraid to visit the dentist. However, sedation techniques make it possible to receive treatment under relaxed conditions. The American Dental Association, has outlined a few guidelines to ensure patients’ safety. Here is more information about sedation dentistry.

Types of Available Sedation:

Depending on your needs, there are various sedation methods available. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the most common. A mask is placed over a patient’s face so that it can be inhaled without hassle. This provides a calm sensation but keeps a person awake and responsive.

Oral sedatives may be used as well. A patient swallows a pill that may cause drowsiness. IV sedation is another method that brings the quickest results. Drugs are administered through a vein and are carefully monitored. With this type of sedation, a patient may have no memory of the dental procedure.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry:

• Safely Removes Anxiety. When a patient has a severe fear of going to the dentist, sedation offers a safe and easy way to become calm. It often makes future procedures less stressful as well.
• Patients are Responsive. Since sedation does not make a patient unconscious, he or she can follow a dentist’s instructions throughout the procedure.
• Solve Multiple Issues. When a patient is being sedated, it provides an opportunity to correct more than one dental issue. Also, a dentist will be able to complete a complicated procedure in one sitting.

Drawbacks of Sedation Dentistry:

The only negative with sedation is a patient will not be able to drive himself or herself home. Sedatives take time to wear off, so it is not wise to take command of a vehicle. It is best to bring a friend or family member along as a designated driver.

Sedation dentistry is an excellent option for a person who fears dental work. Instead of allowing problems to worsen, a dentist can administer some form of sedation and go to work restoring dental health. The professionals at Stoner Periodontic Associates understand the apprehension people feel when facing dental visits. This practice offers IV sedation so that all patients can relax during procedures. For more information, call the office today.