Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medications to provide dental patients a relaxing and anxiety-free experience. These medications calm or allow them to sleep through their dental treatment. It helps patients who would otherwise avoid dental appointments receive the care they need without the common worries.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

There are three types of sedation dentistry: oral sedation, laughing gas, and IV sedation. The type your dentist will use during your procedure will depend on several factors. These include your medical history, the type, and the duration of the dental procedure you are undergoing. Oral sedation is the most common of the three. This is because most people feel anxious about being unconscious. 

Signs You Are a Good Candidate

Research shows that 30 percent of people avoid going to the dentist because of fear. Whatever the reason for your dental phobia, it makes you a good candidate for sedation dentistry. Other reasons include:
 

• You have a long and traumatic procedure scheduled.
   

• You experience extreme pain and sensitivity during dental procedures.
   

• You have a strong gag or swallowing reflex.
   

• Medical conditions are worsened by stress.
   

• Local anesthesia is ineffective on you.
   

• Patients are children above one year old.

Anxiety and Dental Phobia

If you fall under this category of patients, then oral sedation is the best option for you. It will take the edge off while keeping you conscious.

Long and Traumatic Dental Procedures

Some dental procedures may take hours. This would be uncomfortable for patients. This is more so if there is a need to keep the mouth open for long. Sedation offers a pleasant and relaxing alternative for you to go through such procedures.

Extreme Pain and Sensitivity During Dental Procedures

Dentists automatically numb your mouth during a painful procedure. However, you may still feel discomfort due to sensitive teeth and gums. This makes dental procedures scary. Sedation removes the edge and makes the procedure less scary. Your dentist will advise you on the best type of sedation dentistry for you.

Strong Gag Reflex

If you gag during procedures, this will make them uncomfortable for you. It may also make it difficult for the dentist to treat you successfully. Sedation can calm your gag reflex, making procedures smoother and more comfortable. 

Medical Conditions Exacerbated by Stress

Oral sedation dentistry is highly beneficial in these cases. However, there is a need for dose adjustments accordingly. This is because, for some conditions, medication may take longer than normal leaving the body. For others, it may take longer to take effect on the body.

Local Anesthesia Is Ineffective

Local anesthesia is usually used for simple procedures like filling cavities. It takes effect in 10 minutes and usually lasts for 30 to 60 minutes. But anatomical differences may make some patients not react to it. In these cases, sedation dentistry comes in handy.

Children Above One-Year-Old

Sedation in children happens when they fear going to the dentist and refuse to cooperate during the visit. Nitrous oxide is safe for their sedation. However, it needs a pediatric dentist who has the training to administer oral sedation to children. This kind of sedation can be safe when kept within the recommended dose of the child’s weight and age. 

If you would like to learn more about sedation dentistry, visit The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry at our offices in Destin, Panama City Beach, or Navarre, Florida. You can also call (850) 810-0300, (850) 810-0600, or (850) 409-6400 to book an appointment today.