What is Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation refers to a variety of techniques used to make patients more comfortable during dental procedures. Our dentists can help determine if a dental sedation option is right for you.
At The Art of Dentistry, we do everything we can to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental appointments. In addition to offering sedation options, we will work at your pace, take breaks when you need them, and provide calm reassurance as needed.
Dental sedation can also assist patients who have difficulty sitting still for long periods of time. By using dental sedation, our team can ensure your comfort during any dental procedure.
Is Dental Sedation Right for You?
Sedation can help a wide range of patients, including those who have any of the following:
- Dental anxiety or phobia: Patients with severe dental phobia may avoid visiting the dentist for routine checkups and even when a dental problem arises. This can not only aggravate an existing condition, but also lead to more extensive and costly procedures down the line.
- A condition that makes sitting still difficult: For patients with Parkinson’s Disease, Cerebral Palsy, or other conditions that make sitting still a challenge, dental sedation can make dental treatments more comfortable and accessible.
- Multiple or complex treatments: Dental sedation is also sought out by those who are in need of more extensive dental work, including a full mouth reconstruction or a smile makeover. In addition to providing optimal comfort, dental sedation allows your dentist to combine multiple treatments into one procedure, reducing your time spent in the dentist’s chair.
Sedation Options at The Art of Dentistry
During your consultation, Dr. Weiss will conduct a thorough examination of your dental and medical history to create a customized treatment plan.
He will then review our sedation options to determine which treatment would be well suited to your needs.
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Laughing Gas or Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide is a form of inhaled sedation that induces a state of light relaxation. Throughout treatment, our team can alter the level of sedation to assure you are comfortable.
Patients who are treated with laughing gas can drive themselves to and from our office for their procedure.
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Oral Sedation
Prior to treatment, patients are given an oral sedative to encourage relaxation. Your dentist may recommend taking this pill the night prior to your visit or up to an hour before your procedure.
Often, patients under oral sedation cannot recall details of their procedure. If you move forward with this treatment option, you will need to arrange a ride to and from our office.
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IV Sedation
This type of sedation places patients in a state of deep relaxation, but they can still respond to directions or questions during treatment. During your procedure, your dentist can adjust the amount of sedation you receive.
If you undergo IV sedation, you must make arrangements with a friend or family member to drive you to and from your appointment.
FAQs About Dental Sedation
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about teeth whitening at The Art of Dentistry.
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Is dental sedation safe?
Yes, when administered by trained professionals, dental sedation is a safe and well-established practice. Dentists who offer sedation complete specialized training and follow strict protocols to ensure your safety.
Before your procedure, we carefully review your medical history to choose the safest sedation option and dosage. During treatment, your vital signs are closely monitored, and sedation levels can be adjusted if needed. Afterward, you’ll be observed until you’re fully stable and ready to return home.
While all medical procedures carry some risk, dental sedation is a proven way to reduce anxiety and improve the experience for patients who feel nervous or require complex care. It’s essential to share your full health history with your dentist to help ensure the safest outcome.
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Will I be awake during the procedure?
The level of awareness you experience during a dental procedure depends on the type of sedation used. Sedation in dentistry ranges from mild relaxation to full unconsciousness. Here’s a breakdown of the common types:
- Minimal Sedation: You’ll be awake but relaxed – ideal for mild anxiety or routine procedures.
- Moderate Sedation (Conscious Sedation): You’ll remain awake but may feel drowsy or disconnected. Many patients remember little or nothing afterward.
- Deep Sedation: You’ll be on the edge of consciousness and may drift in and out of sleep, but can still respond to touch or voice.
- General Anesthesia: You’ll be completely unconscious, with no awareness or memory of the procedure. This is typically reserved for complex or lengthy treatments.
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Will I feel pain during dental sedation?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during dental sedation. The purpose of sedation is to reduce anxiety and help you feel relaxed throughout the procedure.
Local anesthesia is typically used alongside sedation to numb the treatment area, so you won’t feel pain even during more complex procedures. While under sedation, you’ll remain conscious (unless under general anesthesia) and can communicate with your dentist – if you feel any discomfort, it can be addressed right away.
After your visit, you may feel mild soreness or sensitivity, depending on the treatment. This is temporary and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
Your comfort is always our priority. If you have any concerns, we’ll discuss them in advance and tailor your sedation plan to suit your needs.
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Are there any side effects or risks associated with dental sedation?
While dental sedation is considered very safe, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. These may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or, in rare cases, allergic reactions to sedative medications. Deep sedation and general anesthesia may carry a slight risk of breathing issues.
To ensure your safety, we conduct a thorough review of your medical history, current medications, and overall health. This allows us to choose the most appropriate sedation method and dosage for you.
Your vital signs are continuously monitored throughout the procedure, and we follow strict safety protocols at every step. For deeper levels of sedation, we recommend having a responsible adult accompany you to and from your appointment.
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How long does the sedation effect last?
The duration of the sedation effect depends on the type of sedation used. Minimal sedation, like nitrous oxide, wears off quickly, allowing patients to resume regular activities soon after the procedure. Moderate sedation may leave patients drowsy and groggy for a few hours, with little memory of the dental work. Deep sedation induces a more prolonged state of drowsiness, requiring several hours of recovery, while general anesthesia causes complete unconsciousness until the effects wear off.
Recovery time may vary based on individual factors like metabolism and overall health. It’s crucial to follow post-sedation care instructions provided by the dental team. For deep sedation or general anesthesia, patients should arrange for someone to accompany them home and avoid driving or operating machinery for at least 24 hours. Openly discussing any concerns with the dentist or dental professional beforehand ensures a safe and comfortable sedation experience.
