What are the Sedation Types in Dentistry: Is it for you?

Many patients suffer from dental anxiety that prevents them from seeking dental treatment; delaying and avoiding treatment results in untreated oral health issues. To address this problem, dentists use sedation dentistry. There are different types of sedation, and our dentists in Kelowna will help determine the right option for you. This blog will examine the four types of sedation and whether sedation dentistry in Kelowna is right for you. 

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help dental patients relax and stay calm during dental procedures. This dentistry’s primary purpose is to calm patients with dental anxiety or those undergoing lengthy and multiple procedures simultaneously.

Patients can opt for different types of sedation dentistry depending on a few factors. The factors include the patient’s health history, personal preferences and the procedure length. The three common types of sedation dentistry are Nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and Intravenous sedation. 

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous Oxide is a minimal sedation option. It is referred to as laughing gas and, when administered, provides a calming effect on patients within minutes. Patients inhale it through a mask over their nose. Dentists can also control the amount of sedation given throughout the dental procedure.

This sedation type makes the patient feel drowsy while keeping them conscious. The patient might feel a tingly sensation in their limbs. The main advantage of this sedation type is that it is safe, works quickly, and the effects wear off quickly, which allows you to drive home safely after the dental procedure.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a mild to moderate sedation type. The dentist prescribes it as a pill before the patient’s dental procedure. This sedation type can be mild or moderate, depending on the dosage.

For a mild dosage, the pill induces a state of drowsiness, keeping the patient conscious and relaxed. For a moderate dosage, the pill induces a state of grogginess, making the patient fall asleep during the dental procedure. However, the dentist can gently shake you awake if they need your cooperation.

Depending on your anxiety level, Knox Mountain Dentists will suggest the right oral sedation type. Oral Benzodiazepines are commonly used in this sedation type and are proven to be efficient and safe for clinical use. A necessary precaution to note is that this sedation type can temporarily affect your memory and mortar skills, requiring you to get someone to drive you home after the procedure.

IV Sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation is a moderate sedation type. A tiny needle is placed in the patient’s vein to administer it into the bloodstream. This sedation type allows our Kelowna dentists to control the sedation level issued.

IV sedation induces a state of semi-consciousness and puts the patient in a deep state of relaxation. The patient may even fall asleep and not remember much of the procedure. This sedation type is ideal for people dealing with severe dental anxiety and for those undergoing lengthy dental procedures.

Knox Mountain dentists will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels throughout the procedure. In addition to controlling the level of sedation, dentists can also generally provide reversal medication if needed. Similar to oral sedation, the effects of IV sedation do not wear off quickly and require someone to drive the patient home safely. 

General Anesthesia 

General anesthesia is a deep sedation type and is commonly referred to as unconscious sedation. Patients are put to sleep during the dental procedure. This sedation type is ideal for patients struggling with severe anxiety.

The dentists undergo specialized training to provide general anesthesia, and, in most instances, an anesthesiologist provides this sedation type. Like oral and IV sedation, this sedation type also requires someone to drive the patient home after the procedure.

Is Sedation Dentistry Right for You?

Sedation dentistry is an excellent option for those who face dental anxiety, low pain tolerance, overactive gag reflex and patients undergoing lengthy dental procedures. Although it might benefit patients who want to stay relaxed during a dental procedure, it is not for everyone. Patients must consult with their dentists before opting for sedation dentistry.

Our dental clinic in Kelowna will evaluate and discuss your medical history before suggesting the best sedation type for you. They may also assess other factors, such as medical conditions and medications that affect your eligibility. 

Conclusion

edation dentistry can help you maintain good oral health if you struggle with dental anxiety. Sedation Dentistry in Kelowna is performed by Knox Mountain Dentistry.  If you have any questions regarding the different types of sedation available in our dental office, contact us today.