For many patients, sedation dentistry is a must for certain dental appointments. This branch of dentistry focuses on putting patients at ease and calming anxieties during visits. The use of sedation is most frequent when major treatments or procedures take place. These could include a root canal, filling, or restorative work such as a crown or bridge. If you have had negative experiences in the past with invasive dental work, sedation could make sense for you.
No one likes to feel pain and discomfort anywhere in their body. Teeth and gums can be especially sensitive. During procedures such as a root canal or filling, the dentist must access the damaged areas by using a dental drill. Without the use of local anesthesia, the pain would be excruciating. The medication numbs the area and blocks the pain the patient would otherwise feel. Other processes involve cutting into the gums or coming into contact with nerves, roots, and other tissue.
A patient does not have to be a certain age or have a specific health history to ask for sedation before a dental procedure. However, some people may benefit from sedation than other patients. It can be good for young children who have dental anxiety or are fearful of the instruments the dentist will use. It may also make sense for people who do not respond well to anesthesia or who take a long time to get numb. Patients who have panic attacks or who have trouble sitting still for long periods should consider sedation.
For certain dental processes, pain medication will be necessary. The dentist will numb the mouth for the most invasive processes, especially those that will be deep into the root or gum. Longer procedures will also require a local anesthetic. Keep in mind that sedation dentistry will use sedation and anesthesia together.
The anesthesia prevents the person from feeling pain. The sedation calms and relaxes the patient who may have anxieties. Together, these methods can effectively prepare a person for any dental work. Sedating the person helps take the mind off the procedure.
Be aware that the effects of sedation dentistry can last for several hours. After the dental procedure, the patient should arrange for a ride home. The person should also avoid doing anything strenuous for up to the next 24 hours. The patient might experience a dry mouth, nausea, or a headache afterward. Still, the patient should have peace of mind to know that sedation is common in dentist’s offices and should not pose any problems.
Do not let fear of pain keep you from seeing the dentist regularly. Thanks to sedation dentistry, you can feel at ease no matter what procedure you are undergoing. Talk to your dentist to see if sedation is available for you. You could be a good candidate for this option.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drpainless.com or call Red Cliffs Dental at (435) 465-4002 for an appointment in our St. George office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Sedation Dentist in St. George, UT.
Understanding the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist can help patients determine which specialist they need for their oral health care. While both professionals focus on maintaining and improving oral health, their roles, training, and areas of expertise differ significantly. A dentist typically handles general dental care, while an orthodontist specializes in diagnosing…
If a spouse or other loved one has been kept up at night because of snoring, it may be time to see if sleep apnea is a problem. While many people do not think of snoring as a medical issue, it can signify sleep apnea or a partially obstructed airway. Even a minor airway obstruction…
Dental crowns repair and protect badly-damaged teeth by encasing them completely. Traditionally, the process of placing a crown takes two dental visits. If given a choice, people would have their tooth restorations done in a single procedure. This is what created the need for same-day dental crowns. Some dental practices now place crowns in a…
All-on-4® implants refer to a procedure where the patient gets four posts attached to their jawbone to insert dentures for a simple, quick, and long-lasting smile. They are growing in popularity due to their permanence and effectiveness. There are some things to consider before getting an implant surgery, with one of the most significant components…
If a spouse or other loved one has been kept up at night because of…
Understanding the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist can help patients determine which…
The dentist may also prepare the tooth by filing it down and reducing its height…
All-on-4® implants refer to a procedure where the patient gets four posts attached to their…
Find out when early orthodontics may be needed for your children and why you should…
When considering esthetic dentistry to help improve the appearance of your smile, considering dermal fillers…
