Sedation dentistry is best known as something for patients that suffer from dental anxiety. But there are so many other patients that sedation can be beneficial for. Dr. Ira Goldberg of Morris County Dental Associates, LLC, a dentist in Succasunna, NJ, explains sedation dentistry and how it can benefit you.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the practice of utilizing medication to help keep a patient calm throughout a dental procedure. There are multiple types of sedation that can be administered, depending on the issues the patient has and the procedures that need to be performed.
First is nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. This is breathed in through the nose during the length of the procedure. It both takes effect and dissipates quickly, so you can drive yourself to and from your appointment. You’ll be relaxed and calm, but still alert enough to answer questions if the dentist has any.
Next is oral conscious sedation. This comes in the form of a prescribed pill that you take an hour or so before your procedure. Oral sedation lasts longer, meaning that you’ll need a ride to and from your appointment. While it isn’t designed to put you to sleep, you may fall asleep or forget parts of the procedure. Dr. Goldberg is certified to administer oral conscious sedation through Dental Oral Conscious Sedation (DOCS).
Last is IV sedation, administered with the help of local anesthesiologists. This is only for patients that request or require to be put completely asleep during their procedures. IV sedation is often used for treatments like the extraction of wisdom teeth. As this is the deepest form of sedation, you’ll need a ride to and from the appointment. You probably won’t remember any of the procedure.
The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Many people suffer from dental anxiety, or a fear of the dentist. Each individual case is different. For some, it can be debilitating and lead them to avoid regular dental care. This leads to further problems down the road and can require more extensive restorative dentistry to fix. As with any issue, it’s always easier to take care of when it’s caught at the start.
Sedation allows patients with dental fear to get both regular dental care and sit through more intensive treatments if they’re required. Even if the patient doesn’t have dental anxiety, sedation makes it easier and more comfortable for multiple procedures to be done in one session.
Sedation is also beneficial for children and patients that have medical conditions that involve involuntary movements. Dental care can sometimes involve things like drills and sharp instruments. We want to ensure the safety of all of our patients and make sure that they won’t be harmed due to tics or movements.
Lastly, sedation is ideal for patients with a strong gag reflex. When a patient has a gag reflex, the mouth is essentially fighting the dentist as he tries to perform his job. Sedation allows this reflex to relax and make treatment more comfortable for both patient and dentist alike.
Your Sedation Dentist in Succasunna, New Jersey
Do you think you can benefit from sedation dentistry? Call us or schedule an appointment online.