Dentist near you expose 5 misguided myths about sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry is the practice of using certain pharmacological agents to relax a patient and keep him calm during a dental procedure. It is quite effective for patients who suffer from dental anxiety and phobia. Over the years, certain myths and fallacies have been associated with sedation dentistry that gives it a bad name. In this article, let us debunk 5 baseless myths associated with sedation dentistry.

There Is Only Type of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry can be administered in four different forms. The degree of sedation varies from type to type. Following are the most commonly used types of sedation dentistry:

Oral Sedatives:

• Oral sedatives such as diazepam are taken in the form of tablets. These sedatives relax the patient but do not block the pain. Hence, local anesthesia is also administered along with this procedure.

Intravenous Sedation:

• This type of sedation is administered through drips. The purpose of intravenous sedation is to calm the patient. Hence, local anesthesia is used alongside to provide relief from pain.

Nitrous Oxide:

• This gas has a calming effect on the patient. It is used in combination with local anesthesia to reduce stress.

General Anesthesia:

• This type of anesthesia contains the highest percentage of sedation. It is used for major surgeries such as the removal of wisdom teeth, during which the patient is knocked out completely.

Sedation Dentistry Is Not Worth The Extra Money

• It is true that sedation dentistry costs more than traditional anesthesia. For some people, these extra bucks can be a turn-off. However, the relief it provides against dental anxiety and phobia is worth the high cost. Sedation dentistry is very effective for people who lack movement control, have a high tolerance to common anesthesia, or have an uncontrolled gag reflex.

Sedation dentistry enables the dentist to perform multiple procedures during a single sitting. This reduces stress and effort for both patient and dentist.

It is Applicable for Major Dental Procedures Only

• There is a common perception that general anesthesia and dental sedation are the same. However, as discussed earlier, sedation can be administered for different dental procedures in different quantities. Oral or inhaled sedation is particularly useful for minor procedures during which the patient needs to be calmed but does not have to be unconscious.

The After Effects Can Last for Days

• A lot of people fear that the after-effects of sedation dentistry i.e. grogginess and loss of concentration will last for days. Sedation dentistry will be a hurdle in carrying out day-to-day activities such as driving or going back to the office.

However, there is no truth to this. An experienced dentist will administer the exact amount of sedation needed to relax the patient only for the duration of the procedure. Low-dose sedation types such as oral and intravenous sedation wear off in a couple of hours after the procedure.

Sedation Dentistry in Not Safe

Most people have apprehensions about anesthetic procedures. While sedation dentistry carries some inherent risks, keep in mind that the current practices are tested rigorously to affirm their safety for use. The following protocols are followed to ensure the safe use of sedation dentistry:

• Optimal dosage is determined for each patient.
• The patient’s vitals such as heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels are monitored continuously during the time the patient is under sedation.

To get more information on sedation dentistry, contact Icon Dental Center. Our experts will guide you and clear all your apprehensions. We offer services in Seattle, Everett, and nearby areas. Call us at 206-225-2882.