When you think of going to the dentist, some people get nervous, don't they? That chair, that noise, those instruments... Even thinking about it makes you feel scared. Because of this fear, many people wait until their dental problems get worse. But would you believe me if I told you there was a way to get your teeth treated very easily, without any fear, anxiety, or pain? That's what we call 'Sedation Dentistry'. Let's talk about this very simply today.
What exactly is Sedation Dentistry?
Simply put, this involves putting you in a relaxed, calm state during a dental procedure. This is a moderate level of sedation, meaning you are not completely unconscious . You are conscious, but you are in a very relaxed, relaxed state. Some people also call this 'twilight sleep', because it creates a state where you are not unconscious, do not feel pain, and do not remember the treatment later. To be precise, most people feel as if they are in a dream.
Who is this method most suitable for?
In fact, anyone of any age, even young children, can benefit from this method. If you have a similar problem, you can talk to your dentist about this method.
| Problem / Fear | Description |
|---|---|
| Dental Anxiety | Excessive fear and anxiety at the thought of going to the doctor. |
| Gag reflex | Feeling like you're going to vomit when you put an instrument or the doctor's hand in your mouth. |
| Fear of needles (Aichmophobia) | Excessive fear of the numbing injection. |
| Excessive tooth sensitivity | Excruciating pain when something hits your teeth. |
| Feeling trapped (Claustrophobia) | Feeling suffocated and having difficulty breathing while in the doctor's chair. |
| Numbing medicine not working properly | Your body is not responding properly to the local anesthesia that is usually given. |
| People with special needs | For children or adults with physical, mental or behavioral special needs. |
What are these calming methods?
Your doctor will choose the method that best suits you based on your needs, level of fear, time to treatment, and your health history. There are three main methods.
1. Nitrous Oxide (Nitrous Oxide) or 'laughing gas'
This is also called 'laughing gas'. You are given a small mask over your nose and made to breathe this gas. Within 3-5 minutes, you will start to feel very light and relaxed. The doctor can control the amount of gas you are given throughout the treatment.
The biggest advantage of this is that when you breathe in some oxygen after the treatment is over, this gas is almost completely eliminated from your body. So you can drive home on your own.
2. Oral Conscious Sedation
In this method, you are given a sedative pill about an hour before the treatment. The most commonly used is a drug from the ``Diazepam`` class, such as ``Triazolam``. For young children, a liquid medicine such as ``Midazolam`` can be given.
When you take these pills, you will feel very sleepy, and you may even fall asleep. But if the doctor wants to talk to you, he can wake you up with a light tap.
Very important: Since this method temporarily affects your memory and movement, you cannot go home alone after the treatment for any reason. You must have a friend or family member accompany you.
3. Intravenous (IV) Sedation
This is the deepest form of sedation offered in a dental office. In this, a sedative is given directly into your vein through an IV ( saline ). During the treatment, the doctor and his team continuously monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels .
Many people fall asleep during this method and do not remember anything about the treatment when they wake up. This method is best for people who are very fearful or for treatments that take a long time.
Does it cause complete loss of consciousness (General Anesthesia)?
Yes, in some special cases, that is also done. But it is different from `Sedation`. `General Anesthesia` means that you are completely unconscious during the treatment. This is usually done for young children, adults with special needs, or people who have an unbearable dental phobia.
This is not something that can be done in a regular dental clinic. It requires a hospital or a place with special facilities. And it requires an anesthesiologist who has been specially trained to do this.
What should I do before and after treatment?
Before treatment
You should first talk to your doctor and tell them all about your health and any medications you are taking. Usually, you are advised to avoid eating or drinking anything for 6 hours before the treatment. If you are taking blood thinners, such as Warfarin, you should definitely tell your doctor about it.
After treatment
Unless you used 'laughing gas' alone, if you used one of the other two methods, you need to have someone you trust to take you home.
Important: Do not go home alone, either in a taxi or a ride-share service (e.g. Uber, PickMe), for any reason. Go home with someone you know well and trust. You need to go home and rest well.
What are the benefits and side effects?
As with any medical procedure, there are benefits as well as minor risks.
| Advantages | Side effects/Risks |
|---|---|
| Eliminates fear and anxiety. | Drowsiness even after treatment. |
| The treatment can be done lightly. | Dry mouth (Xerostomia). |
| The doctor can work quickly. | Nausea and vomiting. |
| It helps those who avoid treatment out of fear. | Headache and a bruise where the IV was inserted. |
Is this suitable during pregnancy?
These methods are not usually recommended during pregnancy because some medications can affect the baby's development. Although nitrous oxide can sometimes be given in the second trimester, most doctors prefer to use this treatment after delivery.
When should I see the doctor again?
The medication may take effect for up to 24 hours after treatment. However, if you have persistent nausea or vomiting, a fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.33 degrees Celsius), or pain that does not go away with painkillers , call your dentist immediately for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Don't avoid treatment because you're afraid of going to the dentist. Sedation Dentistry is a safe method that can help you.
- Your dentist will choose the most appropriate sedation method for you based on your fear, health condition, and the treatment being performed.
- If you have received oral sedation (pills) or IV sedation (intravenously), never go home alone. Go with someone you trust. Avoid driving for at least a day.
- Follow your doctor's instructions carefully before and after treatment. If you have any problems or unusual symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
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