If you need to undergo a major oral procedure, your dentist might recommend that you be sedated during your appointment. That prospect might seem a little intimidating, especially if you have never been sedated before. You might wonder what it feels like, and you may question whether it is really necessary. This blog post contains some information to prepare you for the road ahead.
What Is Dental Sedation?
“Dental sedation” is an umbrella term for a number of different techniques that dentists use to help patients stay relaxed, calm, and comfortable during treatments. They typically involve the use of various medications that affect how the human body reacts to stimuli, resulting in a calmer state of mind.
What Does Dental Sedation Feel Like?
Different sedation methods can induce different sensations. One popular form of sedation, known as intravenous (IV) sedation, involves the use of medications administered directly into the bloodstream via a small needle on the arm or hand.
IV sedation is quite powerful. Within minutes of when it is administered, you may start to feel very calm. You may even feel drowsy and drift off to sleep, though you will not technically be unconscious. Your dental team can adjust your sedation level throughout your procedure, so you can expect to remain calm and comfortable from the beginning to the end of your treatment.
The effects of the sedation can linger for several hours, even after the medication is no longer being administered. It would be a good idea to plan to rest for at least a full day following your appointment. Once the sedation wears off, you might not have any memory of what happened during your treatment.
Is Dental Sedation Really Necessary?
In some cases, sedation is elective. In other instances, it is extremely valuable — perhaps even indispensable. You might need it if:
- You struggle with dental anxiety or fear that makes you reluctant to commit to treatment.
- You have a medical condition that makes it difficult for you to sit still for long periods of time.
- You are not easily numbed by local anesthesia.
- You need to undergo a particularly long or complex dental treatment (or you are undergoing multiple treatments in a single appointment).
Your dental team can discuss your sedation options with you so you fully understand how they will help you to enjoy an efficient and comfortable treatment experience.
Dental sedation could make any procedure a breeze! Talk to your dentist if you have questions about it or how it works.
Meet the Practice
At Radiance Dentistry Dental Implant Center, we specialize in helping patients rebuild lost teeth with dental implants. We offer IV sedation to make treatment as easy and comfortable as possible. Our highly trained team pays great attention to detail with the goal of making every procedure both safe and successful. To learn more about IV sedation and the other services we offer, contact our Irving, TX, office at 972-866-7976.