Brushing and flossing are important for good oral health; however, they aren’t enough. The American Dental Association recommends visiting a dentist for a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. Unfortunately, even something as simple as a dental cleaning can be too much for some patients. If you or a loved one have special needs, dental care is still possible. Your sedation dentist has the solutions you need to keep oral health a top priority.
Candidates for Dental Sedation
Dental sedation can help patients of all ages. It’s not just reserved for people with dental fears or phobias. It can also benefit patients with physical, cognitive, or psychological complications that can make dental care difficult, stressful, or uncomfortable. Your sedation dentist will review you or your loved one’s medical history to ensure it’s the right option for their needs and safety.
Types of Dental Sedation
There are many types of dental sedation to help patients with various situations. Your dentist will determine which will be best, which may include:
- Local Anesthetic: A local numbing agent can block pain while in the dentist’s chair. It’s administered using an injection and can be suitable for many patients. It provides temporary numbness to make dental work pain-free.
- Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation: Better known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is an inhaled sedative that can relieve anxiety. A mask is placed over the nose to deliver the medication. It can create a relaxed and euphoric experience without causing unconsciousness. After the mask is removed, the effects wear off within a couple of minutes. It’s the safest form of sedation and won’t cause any long-lasting side effects.
- IV Sedation: IV sedation is reserved for patients with complex needs. The medication is delivered intravenously and takes effect quickly. It causes sleepiness but doesn’t result in unconsciousness. It has memory loss effects and can take a few hours for the effects to dissipate.
- General Anesthesia: Some situations require more than IV sedation can offer. General anesthesia causes unconsciousness, so there will be no memory of the appointment. It’s reserved for patients with serious special needs or invasive treatment plans.
It’s important to find a sedation dentist who’s completed advanced education and is certified by a professional organization. With a highly educated and reputable dental professional, visiting a dentist can be easy and comfortable.
About Dr. Travis Thompson
Dr. Thompson earned his dental degree from the University of Florida before continuing his education in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He has regularly continued his education to provide various specialties, like dental sedation. He is a diplomate of the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology and many other professional organizations. Request an appointment through his website or call (561) 879-8962.