One reason that many people avoid going to the dentist is fear of pain and discomfort. It can be uncomfortable to sit in the dentist chair beneath bright lights and hear the sounds of the various dental tools that are being used on you. Some people fear going to the dentist so much that they resist having dental appointments for a very long time.
Unfortunately, going for long periods of time without visiting the dentist makes things much worse. Conditions in the mouth may have deteriorated so much that a considerable amount of work may be necessary to restore teeth and gums to a healthy condition. This is why many dentists use a method called sedation dentistry.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a method used by dentists to ensure a comfortable and relaxed dental experience for patients. It is considered very safe for people of all ages, including children and seniors.
When you go to a hospital to have certain procedures done, such as surgery, your doctor may put you under anesthesia to make you unconscious during the operation. Sedation dentistry is not like that at all.
What Does Sedation Dentistry Feel Like?
When you have sedation dentistry, you may be fully conscious during the entire dentist appointment. If you fall asleep during the treatment, it will only be because you are so relaxed that you become drowsy. Sedation dentistry doesn’t put you to sleep by itself. If you choose to stay awake, you can.
To answer what does sedation dentistry feel like, it’s a sensation that’s akin to feeling the most relaxed you’ve ever felt. While you’re aware of what the dentist is doing, it doesn’t bother you or make you anxious at all. Your whole body is relaxed and comfortable. It can almost feel like the dentist is working on a different patient, and you are just the observer.
Is the Sedative Very Strong?
No, the sedatives used in sedation dentistry are extremely mild. You won’t feel like you’re dizzy or disoriented at all. You won’t even feel like you are sedated. In fact, you are more likely to feel disorientated from drinking a glass of alcohol than you are when you have sedation dentistry.
Do I Need Special Permission for Sedation Dentistry?
You don’t need any kind of referral in order to get sedation dentistry. You do need to give your dentist permission to use sedation dentistry. Your dentist will never use sedation dentistry without your consent. However, not all dentists offer sedation dentistry in their practice. So if you would like to be sedated during your dentist appointment, you need to make sure that you book an appointment with a dentist that offers sedation dentistry.
What Kinds of Treatments Can Be Done With Sedation Dentistry?
Most dental services can be done with sedation dentistry, including:
- teeth cleaning
- dental implants
- root canals
- gum treatments
- crowns
Whenever any treatment makes you uncomfortable, you can request sedation to help you get through the treatment without anxiety.
Now is the time to start making regular dental appointments. With sedation dentistry, For there is no longer any reason to fear the dentist. Contact us today to book your appointment!