Does the idea of going to the dentist make you feel anxious, nauseous or afraid?
Sedation dentistry has emerged as a solution for people who know they need to visit the dentist but have an intense dental phobia.
But is sleep dentistry safe? In this blog, we explore the practice in more depth, with a particular focus on safety and risk.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
In sedation dentistry, your dentist will administer a sedative to you, either before or throughout your dental procedure. This sedative helps you relax so you can comfortably undergo the treatment.
The level of sedation can range from low to high and will depend on the kind of sedative used. At the low end of the spectrum, you may simply experience a heightened sense of relaxation while remaining conscious.
On the other end, you could be completely unconscious for the full length of your procedure and wake up with no recollection of it.
At Phoenix Road Dental Surgery, we provide the following sedation options:
1. Nitrous Oxide
Also known as “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide is a form of sedation that is administered via a small mask over the nose. The gas helps you feel relaxed within minutes while remaining fully awake and communicative. This safe and widely used clinical sedation method wears off quickly after treatment, allowing you to drive home safely.
2. Intravenous Sedation
To provide intravenous (IV) sedation, your dentist will inject you with a sedative that will make you feel drowsy and relaxed. This feeling will last throughout your procedure. A general anaesthetic will also be used to numb your mouth during the treatment, ensuring you feel no physical discomfort.
Is Dental Sedation Safe?
All dental sedation should be administered by a dental professional who is aware of your medical history, your allergies and any drugs you are prescribed. In the case of IV sedation a medical anaesthetist is required to ensure the correct amount of anaesthesia is used and that you remain asleep throughout the procedure. These processes are essential for making dental sedation safe and effective.
That being said, there are a few risks that come with being sedated.
These include:
- Some drowsiness following the procedure – in particular, this is one of the risks of IV sedation;
- Nausea and vomiting, again largely for patients receiving IV sedation;
- An allergic reaction to the sedative, though this would likely be picked up prior to surgery; and
- Respiratory issues, though this is usually only a factor for patients with an existing respiratory condition.
Generally speaking, these risks can be avoided with appropriate assessment by your dentist and the provision of aftercare instructions.
It’s also important to remember that some oral discomfort post-sedation is common as the sedative wears off and you begin to feel the effects of the procedure. Your dental professional will be able to provide advice on how to best deal with this.
Sleep Dentistry with Phoenix Road Dental Surgery
We understand that going to the dentist can provoke anxiety. That’s why our team goes above and beyond to make sure you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout your visit.
If you’d like to discuss sleep dentistry options for upcoming treatment, our team is here to help. Simply get in contact or book a consultation online today.