What is Sedation Dentistry? Is it Right for Me?
Sedation dentistry is a dental practice that incorporates sedative medications into the pre-op process to help reduce stress and anxiety for patients. This can be especially helpful during longer, more involved procedures or to address general dental anxiety and other concerns.
“There are always safety measures put in place, including specialized training, monitoring vital signs, and emergency equipment.”
What is Sedation Dentistry?
The concept of sedation in dentistry involves the use of sedative medications to promote relaxation during dental procedures. This can help reduce stress and anxiety for patients who are apprehensive about visiting the dentist, fearful of a complex procedure, or concerned about discomfort. Sedation dentistry ultimately creates a more positive patient experience by dulling undesirable sensations, such as the sense of smell and the perception of time or pain.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, when administered by an experienced periodontist for a dental procedure, conscious sedation dentistry is a safe practice for most patients. Patients are never entirely unconscious and can still communicate, but will feel a sense of calm and be less aware of any discomfort.
There are always safety measures put in place, including specialized training, monitoring vital signs, and emergency equipment. Some common side effects of sedation dentistry medications may include nausea and vomiting.[1] Other side effects that aren’t as common include dizziness, drowsiness, hallucinations, and respiratory depression.
Who Is Sedation Dentistry Best For?
In most cases, it may be a good fit for the following patients, procedures, or conditions:
Time-consuming or complex procedures
General dental anxiety
Past dental trauma
Sensitive gag reflex
Difficulty remaining still for extended periods
Behavioral, physical, or cognitive impairment
Low threshold for discomfort or pain
Sedation dentistry may not be a suitable option for everyone, depending on their individual health and other specific concerns. Patients who should avoid sedation dentistry include those who are pregnant, allergic to sedatives, or at risk of drug interactions. Conditions where providers and patients should be cautious about sedatives include systemic illnesses, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), obesity, and sleep apnea.[2]
Why Is Sedation In Dentistry A Common Practice?
Sedation dentistry is a medication intervention that provides practical solutions for individuals with medical, mental health, or cognitive concerns that would otherwise prevent them from getting the care they need.
Anxiety, and specifically dental anxiety, is relatively common. This can lead patients to avoid visiting the dentist or periodontist, which can exacerbate existing dental problems. When they do come in, they may need more work and more complex procedures, compounding their dental anxiety and extending the time they’re in the chair.
Sedation dentistry helps patients overcome avoidance and maintain proper dental and periodontal health without compromising comfort or safety. It improves the patient experience, eliminating the fear and discomfort that keep them from their regular appointments and boosting their confidence to seek essential care.
Types of Sedation Dentistry Methods
There are several types of sedation dentistry that are safe and effective for most patients:[3]
IV sedation in dentistry: IV or intravenous sedation injects the sedative medication (usually midazolam) directly into the bloodstream. This method takes effect within 2 minutes, offering near-immediate relief.
Oral sedation in dentistry: Diazepam is a benzodiazepine medication that is taken orally just prior to the procedure to reduce apprehension before and promote calm during the procedure. This medication takes effect within 15 to 60 minutes.
Inhalation sedation in dentistry: Nitrous oxide sedation, also known as laughing gas, is mixed with oxygen and administered through a mask over the nose during the procedure, providing relief from both pain and anxiety. Patients will first receive only oxygen, and the nitrous oxide is gradually increased before the procedure and then steadily reduced afterward, back to just oxygen.
How much does sedation dentistry cost?
The cost of sedation ranges widely, depending on the type of sedation dentistry used, the type of procedure, insurance coverage, and more. Nitrous oxide sedation is usually the most cost-effective, followed by oral sedation and IV sedation, respectively.
Most dental insurance plans consider sedation elective, but there are exceptions for special or surgical needs. Always check with your insurance plan to clarify your coverage and know what to expect.
Discover Sedation Dentistry Options at Your Local Periodontist in Cedar Park
If you or a loved one is avoiding essential dental or periodontal care due to anxiety or other concerns, sedation dentistry may be the solution you need. The expert team at Central Texas Periodontics is ready to answer all your questions, alleviate your concerns, and provide you with proper care. We prioritize compassionate, comfort care for all patients. Contact Central Texas Periodontics today.
Sources
[1,2,3]Bean, T. (2023, April 23). Conscious sedation in dentistry. StatPearls [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK592406/