Were you making excuses as a kid whenever your parents talked about taking you to a dentist? Do you still feel nervous even at the thought of visiting a dentist? This gesture of kids, as well as adults, is very common. With all the myths and stories we used to hear, visiting a dentist could incite dental phobia in many individuals. But with evolving science and technology, there are methods and techniques that could be used to calm your nerves.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

During a dental procedure, certain drugs and medications are suggested by the dentist to relax the patient and make their experience more comfortable. This process is known as sedation dentistry. It is safe for almost everyone. However, a medical health assessment is required to ensure if the patient is fit for the procedure.

Levels of Sedation

• Minimum: The patient will be relaxed, won't feel any pain, and stays awake during the procedure.
• Moderate: The patient will be partially unconscious but will be able to respond to the dentist's commands. They won't remember much of the procedure.
• Deep: The patient will be asleep during the procedure but can be awakened when required.
• General Anesthesia: The patient will be in a completely unconscious state.

Regardless of what sedatives you are given, local anesthesia will also be administered during oral surgeries to numb the area so that you don't feel even the slightest pain or discomfort.

Types of Sedatives Used in Dentistry

There are various types of sedatives that a dentist uses to calm their patients. The most suitable one for you will depend on your medical health and the type of dental treatment that you are going for. The most common ones are:

• Nitrous Oxide: It is a gaseous sedative inhaled by a patient in a conscious state through an apparatus that is placed on their nose. As long as the patient is inhaling the gas, it will be effective. But as soon as the inhalation stops, its effect fades away gradually.
• Oral sedation: Oral sedation is administered in the form of consumable pills. It does not have any adverse effects and makes the patient drowsy or completely asleep during the procedure, depending on the dosage of the pill recommended by the dentist.
• IV sedation: The drug is given to the patient through the vein, and its effect can be experienced almost immediately. The level of sedation to be given can be adjusted by changing the dosage.

With sedation dentistry, any dental procedure becomes easier and more comfortable for the patient. But it is necessary to give complete disclosure of your medical health to your dentist before any dental procedure.

Please reach out to Rota Advanced Dental Care in Colorado Springs, CO, 80923, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Rota. Please call Dentist in Colorado Springs at (719) 598-1224 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.