Many people feel anxious when going to the dentist. One of the solutions to acute dental anxiety is sedation dentistry, a process by which the patient uses medication to make a trip to the dentist more relaxing and easier to endure.

Between 9% and 20% of adults in the United States avoid going to the dentist because they’re scared, according to WebMD. So, if you’re feeling uneasy at the prospect of a trip to the dentist, you’re definitely not alone. 

But is sedation dentistry safe, and how do you know if it’s the right solution for you? Well, let’s take a closer look.

Understanding Sedation Dentistry

Some people choose sedation dentistry because they experience significant anxiety about dental visits. Sedation helps them feel calm and often unaware of their fear, leading to a more comfortable experience and better oral health outcomes for both the patient and the dentist.

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are different levels of sedation, from minimal to deep. Each type is different depending on what a patient might need.

Some patients get very anxious, and this is completely normal. To combat these woes and make sure you make it to the dentist at least twice yearly, many dentists offer sedation dentistry options.

Types of Sedation

There are a few common types of sedation used in dentistry. These unique approaches allow dentists a wide variety of options and offer helpful solutions for all types of patients, from those who suffer from mild nerves to even the most extreme anxiety.

Let’s look closer at a few of these options, from the mildest to the more aggressive treatments.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is inhaled through a mask. This practice offers a very safe method for those patients with mild anxiety. Gas even has the benefit that patients often feel well enough to drive themselves home afterward.

Oral Sedation

This is a step up in treatment and is for those patients with moderate and above anxiety. Oral sedation involves taking a pill. This method is also quite safe if the doctor gives clear instructions. Patients do need to be watched for several hours afterward, and a driver will be required to get the patient home.

IV Sedation

Again, this level of treatment is more ideal for those with moderate to severe anxiety. IV sedation delivers medication directly into a vein. It lets the dentist adjust the level of sedation in real-time. It also requires close monitoring by a specialist. A driver will be required to get the patient home.

General Anesthesia

The ultimate treatment for anxiety, general anesthesia, will make you fully unconscious. This can be ideal for some patients, especially in more involved dental visits or procedures. This approach involves the biggest health risk and requires a full understanding of the patient’s total health. A driver will be required to get the patient home.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe to Use? General Safety

Sedation dentistry is usually safe when a trained professional is present, monitoring the patient, and performing the procedure. Of course, every medical procedure has some risks, and that is why a qualified dentist must manage the sedation process.

Dental providers follow strict safety steps during the sedation process. These steps ensure both the comfort of the patient and the success of the dental visit.

The entire sedation approach begins with the dentist thoroughly reviewing your medical history. They will ask about allergies, current medications, and health conditions. This step allows the dentist to locate any possible problems (such as drug interactions and sedation feasibility) before moving forward.

During the procedure, a professional care provider will monitor factors such as the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. By doing so, the dentist is always on the lookout for the patient’s safety. This proactive monitoring keeps the patient safe and out of harm’s way.

Common Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry

Most side effects from dental sedation are mild and go away on their own. Drowsiness, dry mouth, and nausea are very common. The type of sedative that the dentist recommends often depends on possible side effects and the patient’s overall health and anxiety level. Thus, sedation dentistry requires proper planning.

Side Effect                          Description
Drowsiness Feeling sleepy or tired after the procedure.
Dry Mouth Your mouth might feel dry for a while.
Nausea Some people feel a bit sick to their stomach.
Headache A mild headache can sometimes happen.

 

These symptoms normally go away fast for almost all patients.

Rare Complications

Serious problems in regards to sedation dentistry are not common. However, you should be aware of these unusual circumstances: Allergic reactions to the sedative, breathing issues, and heart problems are all possible concerns in relation to sedation. The key to success lies in knowing your medical history and informing the professional in charge.

When evaluating any sedation procedure, make sure that your dentist goes over a full health history in the weeks or days leading up to your visit. You do not want any surprises on the day of your procedure.

Some patients might feel drowsy for hours after the procedure, depending on the level of sedative used. Patients could also have some bruising from an IV. Whatever happens, you should maintain an open line of communication with your care provider so that they can plan, monitor, and check up on you before, during, and after your visit.

Precautions After Sedation

After receiving sedation, follow your dentist’s instructions carefully. Avoid driving or using any heavy equipment. That way, the sedative has time to exit your system.

You might feel “out of it” and unable to do things that require clear thoughts and processes, even basic things. Take care of yourself by drinking lots of water and eating healthy foods. Combining this with avoiding alcohol or tobacco can help with your full recovery.

What Sedation is Best?

Deciding which sedation option is the “safest” requires an in-depth discussion with your care providers, certainly including your dentist and perhaps other doctors, such as your primary care provider.

The best sedation approaches are very case-specific. For example, things that would be helpful for a dentist to know would be understanding anxiety levels, any prior history with anesthesia, medical issues, or other health conditions. 

Post-Sedation Care Tips

Getting proper rest is important because the body has to recover and have time to clear out the sedatives. Also, staying hydrated helps your body recover better. Clear the rest of your day after the procedure, no matter your level of sedation. This is because your body may react unexpectedly to the sedation, and you may not be able to function normally for several hours after your visit.

Do your research and be prepared. Talk to others to gather first-hand accounts of similar work, if possible. But also avoid rushing into a decision. Remember, you are discussing putting medication into your body, so it must be taken seriously.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Everyone?

While most people are candidates for sedation dentistry, everyone should be cautious. Very young children might need a special plan. Also, pregnant women might require further consultation with a dental professional.

Always make sure that you fully disclose any and all health information that could impact you. That means also sharing medication lists, allergy issues, and other critical info. These steps should decrease any risks associated with sedation.

Making Dental Visits Comfortable with Safe Sedation

Concerns about “Is sedation dentistry safe?” are best addressed on an individual basis. Sedation provides significant benefits for many patients who experience dental anxiety, helping make visits more comfortable and manageable. However, as with any treatment, the suitability of sedation varies depending on each person’s unique situation.

Having an open discussion with a trusted dental professional is essential. Understanding the process and what to expect can help ease fears and set clear, realistic expectations. At BGW Dental Group, our caring team is here to guide you through every step, so you don’t have to face your dental anxiety alone. There’s no need to suffer in silence. Help is available to make your dental experience as comfortable as possible.