Sedation dentistry is a special kind of dental procedure that is used to alleviate anxiety and provide a relaxing experience for patients who need dental work but who have anxiety sitting in a dental chair. This calming procedure, with the help of oral sedatives or anti-anxiety medication, helps the patient follow through with the appointment, without anxiety or fear.
Most dentists can offer you a method that will help you relax during your next dental appointment. Depressants, anti-anxiety medication, tranquilizers and in some cases, nitrous oxide are given orally, and intravenous drugs are sometimes given if more relaxation is needed.
For instance, most oral sedatives are given to the patient the night before the dental procedure or 30 minutes to an hour before the appointment. Nitrous oxide sedation, however, is given in combination with a local anesthetic.
This special kind of dental work is fast becoming a choice many are selecting when it comes to having dental work performed. The procedure is easy and does not include needles. The oral medication that is given offers a relaxing feeling and many patients, once the work is done, remember little of what went on. However, with this procedure, the patient does retain a low level of consciousness and this helps to ensure safety and cooperation from the patient.
Some dental insurance companies don’t pay for this procedure but there are some non-intravenous procedures where dental insurance may cover the expense. Check with your dental insurance company for more coverage information.
Another benefit of this procedure is that once the work is finished, the patient feels that they have been in the dental chair for a short period of time and because of this feeling, he or she is more agreeable to call the dental office when future dental work is needed.
So, the next time you have a dental appointment, check out our sedation dentist and put your fears to rest.