1. Will I Still Feel Any Pain?
A local anesthetic will numb the pain, and the dental sedative will further lower your awareness level so that you will feel little if any pain during the dental procedure.
2. Will I Be Put To Sleep?
No, dental sedation does not cause one to go to sleep or become unconscious. You will still be awake and able to converse, but you will simply be less active and responsive, and totally relaxed and at ease.
3. What Will I Remember About The Procedure?
Most patients don’t remember much from the dental procedure. And it will seem like it goes much faster than in reality: an hour might feel like 10 minutes in retrospect.
4. How Will I Feel After The Procedure Is Over?
You may still feel a bit tamed for a while, but this will quickly wear off. Nonetheless, you need to have a friend or family member drive you home to be safe.
5. Which Form Of Sedation Is Most Common In Dentistry?
Oral sedation, typically nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is most commonly used today. In the past, intravenous sedation was more common, but is now only used occasionally. A sedative pill is also sometimes used.
6. How Does Oral Sedation Work?
Oral sedatives are delivered through a hose and mouth cover, into the mouth and/or nose. As it takes 20 minutes or so to produce its full effect, you’ll need to get sedated as soon as you sit down in the dental chair. Oxygen may be given after the procedure to clear out any lingering nitrous oxide.
7. Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, there is very low risk associated to sedation dentistry. Plus, your dental practitioner will first check your medical history and you will be closely monitored for possible negative reactions (which are very unlikely anyway.)
8. Is Sedation Dentistry Safe For Children?
Yes, sedation dentistry is just as safe for kids as it is for adults. It is routinely administered to children, so there’s no need to worry.
9. Are There Any Side Effects?
Often, there are no significant side effects to sedation dentistry, but sometimes, one might get hiccups very briefly or have a dry mouth. None of this will last long or be serious.
10. When Is Sedation Dentistry Especially Helpful?
Dental sedation can be helpful to calm one’s nerves in the dental chair, but it also helps in other situations. If you have overly sensitive teeth or are prone to gagging during dental operation, sedation reduces or removes those issues. If you don’t numb as easily to anesthetic, adding sedation will help. And anyone undergoing periodontal surgery or a major dental operation will find oral sedation to be beneficial.
To learn more about sedation dentistry and if it is right for you, feel free to contact periodontist Dr. Raymond A. Kenzik in Ormond Beach, FL, today!