Sedation Dentistry Safety
Does the thought of having your teeth cleaned make your entire body tense with fear? Would you rather endure the agony of a toothache than step foot in a dentist's office? You're not alone. A lot of people are so phobic about going to the dentist that they prefer not to have any treatment. For people who avoid dentists like the plague, sedation dentistry may take away some of their anxiety. Sedation can be used for everything from invasive procedures to a simple tooth cleaning. How it's used depends on the severity of the fear.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It's sometimes referred to as "sleep dentistry," although that's not entirely accurate. Patients are usually awake with the exception of those who are under general anesthesia.
How safe is dental sedation?
Dental sedation is safe with little risk to the patient. The dental staff reviews the patient’s medical history and will not administer dental sedation if it could cause complications. Of course, as is the case with any medication, there are always minor risks, which the dentist can describe before the procedure. Nevertheless, complications from dental sedation are very rare.
How can patients make sure dental sedation is safe?
There are certain things that patients can do to help them feel more confident about dental sedation. First and foremost, choose a dentist who has experience safely administering dental sedation. Also, be sure to fill out all medical forms provided by the dentist in detail. Patients can also have their dentist describe the dental sedation process in greater detail to help them feel more comfortable before the procedure begins.
Which dental sedation option is the safest?
The safest dental sedation option depends on the patient's medical history. However, laughing gas (also called nitrous oxide) is often considered the safest option, although it is not as strong as oral sedation or IV sedation. Laughing gas works well for root canal therapy and other minimally invasive procedures, whereas oral sedation or IV sedation may work best for more extensive treatments.
Are there lasting effects from dental sedation?
The effects of dental sedation should wear off relatively quickly. However, the dentist may advise a patient to arrange for a ride home rather than drive themselves, to ensure optimal safety. If there are any lasting complications, be sure to notify the dentist as soon as possible. Consult with our dental team to learn more about dental sedation.
New Jersey Dental Sedation Services
At Dental Sedation Services, we provide high-quality, advanced dental anesthesia services to general dentists and dental specialists in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the New York metropolitan area. The anxiety that many patients experience when receiving dental care is significantly reduced when treated in a familiar environment. Our office-based anesthesia services make dentistry more accessible and affordable, while offering patients the convenience of receiving comprehensive dental care in their own dental practice. For more information, you can contact us at (732)986-3690, or visit our website.