Many people dread a visit to the dentist. But why? Because of anxiety or discomfort, they may experience during dental procedures. If you struggle with dental anxiety, sedation dentistry in Houston and Porter, Tx is your solution.
What is Sedation Dentistry, and How Does it Work?
Sedation dentistry in Houston, TX, uses medication to ease anxiety and discomfort during dental work. The drugs used slows down brain activity, hence relaxing your body. You will be awake during the procedure unless you are under general anesthesia.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sedation?
Our dentist in Houston, TX, recommends sedation if you are very fearful or anxious. The dental team performs the procedure without interruption since a patient is cooperative. Additionally, it is beneficial if you have:
- Sensitive teeth
- A low pain threshold
- A bad gag reflex
- To undergo a large amount of dental work and can’t sit still during the procedure.
- Mental or physical disability and you are unable to cooperate during dental work.
Children who are terrified of dental visits or are uncooperative can benefit from sedation dentistry.
What Types of Dental Sedation Are Available?
Our dentist recommends sedation depending on your anxiety level and the type of exam you are having. Below are different categories of sedation dentistry in Highway 6, which we use on our patients:
- Laughing gas. It’s also known as nitrous oxide. You breathe the sedative agent (a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen) through a small mask that fits over the nose. Our dentist controls the amount of gas you inhale, and it wears off quickly. After the appointment, you can safely drive home.
- Oral sedation. It’s commonly referred to as pill sedation. Our dental team gives you a pill about an hour before the procedure. You will feel drowsy though you are still conscious. Depending on the process you are due for, our dental team may give larger doses. Eventually, you may fall asleep but can be awakened by a mild shake.
- IV (Intravenous)sedation. Our dentist administers anti-anxiety drug through your vein during the dental treatment. The drug makes you unaware of what’s going on, though you won’t be fully asleep. You can follow basic commands and respond to our dentist. Also, you can breathe on your own hence, no need to monitor your heart rate.
- General Anesthesia. We use a combination of intravenous drugs and anesthetics (inhaled gases) to put you into a sleep-like state before a dental procedure. We administer the medication through a face mask or IV. Our dental team recommends it for lengthy procedures or if very anxious and can’t keep still. The sedative drugs make you completely unconscious, but your muscles will be relaxed. During the process, our well-trained team will monitor your vitals. After the dental work, you won’t recall what happened.
Regardless of the type of sedation dentistry in East Little York, the dentist administers you will need a local anesthetic. It temporarily numbs the area of the mouth we are working on to relieve pain or discomfort.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Sedation dentistry is safe though you may experience some side effects from anesthesia. Older adults and patients with existing conditions are at risk of heart attack, stroke, or pneumonia. Existing illnesses such as obesity, high blood pressure, and seizures can increase the risk of complications.
How Long Does Sedation Medication Take to Wear out?
The time it takes for the drugs to clear off from your system depends on the dosage administered and the type of sedation used. For instance, laughing gas wears off quickly. On the other hand, IV sedation wears out after a few hours, but it can take longer if you received a higher dosage.
It’s advisable to bring a friend or a family member who can drive you home after the procedure. Also, take a day off, especially if your work needs concentration, such as operating heavy machinery.
Take Away
Before sedation dentistry, inform our dental team about your medical history and if on medication. From the information provided, we will advise on the suitable sedation dentistry. Visit Hermosa Dental clinic today for sedation dentistry and any other dental needs.