Procedures
Sedation Dentistry & Anesthesia
Sedation Dentistry
Fear of the dentist is common, but with new sedation methods available, you can overcome your fear of any dental procedure.
Sedation dentistry and anesthesia help reduce dental anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures by sedating patients to keep them calm, relaxed, or asleep throughout the treatment.
AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons offers sedation dentistry in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Show Low and Tempe, AZ.
Key Takeaway
Sedation dentistry helps patients feel calm and comfortable during dental procedures by using options like nitrous oxide, oral sedatives, or IV sedation. It’s a safe and effective solution for reducing anxiety, minimizing discomfort, and improving the overall dental experience for both adults and children.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation in dentistry involves using a form of sedation to make patients comfortable during dental procedures.
Sedation is especially helpful for patients with dental phobia, a medical condition, or those undergoing extensive procedures.
Common methods include:
- Nitrous oxide sedation
- Oral sedatives
- Intravenous sedation dentistry (IV sedation)
Each option offers varying degrees of relaxation, from moderate sedation to a deeper level of calmness.
The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry offers many benefits, including:
- Reduces anxiety: Patients with a fear of needles or dental tools can use sedation to stay calm and relaxed during procedures, helping them overcome phobias that might otherwise delay essential dental care.
- Minimizes discomfort: It’s ideal for patients with low pain tolerance, strong gag reflexes, or sensitivity to needles.
- Eases long procedures: Patients can comfortably sit through lengthy or extensive procedures without stress.
- Improves outcomes: Because sedated patients are more relaxed and cooperative in the dental chair, dentists can often complete procedures more quickly and with fewer complications.
- A better experience: Sedation makes visits more comfortable, creating an enjoyable experience for patients.
Sedation vs. Anesthesia
While many patients believe that IV sedation dentistry is the same as general anesthesia, there are several differences between the two. Here’s an in-depth look at how intravenous sedation and general anesthesia work.
Sedation
Dental sedation keeps patients calm and relaxed during dental procedures.
Minimal sedation can be administered in the form of oral sedatives (pills), nitrous oxide gas for those with a fear of needles, or deeper sedation through IV.
1. Oral Sedation
Also known as conscious sedation, this method uses oral medication to sedate patients.
The most common oral sedation medication is triazolam, also known as Halcion. Zaleplon and lorazepam are also used.
These drugs belong to the benzodiazepine family, which are drugs that act on the central nervous system to produce a calming effect. They work by binding to receptors in the brain that are responsible for controlling anxiety. When triazolam binds to these receptors, it causes a sedative effect that can help patients feel more relaxed during dental procedures.
2. Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Often referred to as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide provides a safe and mild sedative effect.
Patients inhale the gas through a small mask over their nose, where it mixes with oxygen. With this method, dentists can adjust the sedation level as needed.
The effects wear off quickly, so patients can resume normal activities soon after.
3. IV Sedation
For a deeper level of sedation, IV sedation is an effective option.
It is administered through a small tube inserted into the forearm, allowing precise control over the sedative dosage.
Deep sedation is particularly useful for complex or invasive procedures, as it reduces the risk of complications. It’s also commonly used for pediatric patients requiring extensive dental work.
Intravenous sedation is widely used in dentistry due to its many benefits for patients and dental professionals, including:
- It’s effective: IV sedation is one of the most effective types of sedation methods available. It allows dental professionals to precisely control the amount of sedation a patient receives.
- It’s safe: When administered by a trained and licensed professional, IV sedation has a very low risk of complications.
- It’s fast-acting: The sedative effects begin within minutes of administration, making it ideal for time-sensitive procedures.
- Reduces gag reflex: Especially beneficial for patients with a strong gag reflex or for procedures that might trigger it.
- Recover faster: Patients recover more quickly compared to those undergoing general anesthesia.
4. General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is a type of sedation that renders patients unconscious and unable to feel pain during surgical procedures.
It is administered through an IV, inhalation, or a combination of both. General anesthesia is typically used for more complex or lengthy procedures.
General anesthesia can also be a greater risk factor because it depresses both the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Complications from anesthesia can be more serious in elderly patients and patients with heart or lung problems.
What Does Sedation Feel Like?
Patients often feel calm and relaxed, but they may still be able to respond to questions asked by the dentist or oral surgeon.
Some may lightly doze or even have little memory of the procedure, especially with IV sedation. Sleep dentistry helps patients feel like their appointment passes quickly and painlessly.
Risks of Sedation Dentistry
Although sedation is safe when administered by professionals, it carries some risks:
- Allergic reactions to sedative medication or anesthetics.
- Breathing or heart issues during sedation.
- Drowsiness, nausea, or low blood pressure after the procedure.
Patients who smoke or with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or heart issues, may be at an increased risk for complications.
Pediatric Sedation Dentistry
Many children and teens feel anxious or scared about visiting the dentist.
Pediatric sedation dentistry is a great option for kids who need dental work but are too afraid to go through with it. Different types of sedation can be used on children, depending on their age, weight, health history, and procedure.
Pediatric sedation dentistry can help kids who:
- Have a low threshold for pain
- Have sensory processing disorder
- Have special needs
- Are uncooperative
- Are extremely anxious or scared about dental procedures
Sedation options for children include:
- Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas.” This is the most common type of mild sedation used on children. It’s safe and effective and wears off quickly so the child can go home after the procedure.
- Oral sedation. A pill is taken before the appointment to help the child relax.
- IV sedation. Medication is administered through a small IV in the child’s arm. This method of sedation is usually only used for more complex procedures.
- General anesthesia. This type of sedation renders the child unconscious during the procedure. Typically only used for very young children or children with special needs.
Risks of Pediatric Sedation Dentistry
As with any type of sedation, there are some risks associated with pediatric sedation dentistry. The most common side effect is nausea, which can be caused by the sedative. Some other potential side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Low blood pressure
- Slow heart rate
- Allergic reactions
- Breathing problems
Experience The Difference
At AZ Max, we offer only the best sedation dentistry and quality care for our patients.
Our team of highly trained and licensed professionals have years of experience in sedation dentistry and will work with you to ensure that you receive the best possible care.
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Show Low or Tempe, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online inquiry form.
