How Sedation Dentistry Addresses Concerns of Pain

Many patients avoid necessary dental treatment as they fear that the procedure will be discomforting. Fortunately, there is a simple solution: sedation dentistry. This refers to the use of sedation to make dental procedures more comfortable and less painful for patients. 

Sedation dentistry for pain management

The anticipation of pain is often worse than the pain itself. By learning more about sedation dentistry and the benefits that it provides, you can help calm any anxiety that you may have before a dental procedure, as well as experience less pain during the procedure itself. The following is a review of sedation dentistry for pain management. 

Sedation dentistry explained

Sedation dentistry is a way to minimize pain and discomfort during a dental procedure. It involves administering a sedative. There are different methods of administering the sedation medication, including through nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral medication and through an IV. Sedation dentistry is highly recommended for more invasive procedures, such as wisdom tooth extraction and root canal therapy, although many dentists can also utilize sedation dentistry for less invasive and more common procedures, such as a dental restoration. 

The benefits of sedation dentistry for pain management

Sedation dentistry gives patients with dental anxiety a way to relieve their anxiousness before a dental procedure. Treatment minimizes the amount of pain that the patient experiences during the procedure as well. This allows those who would otherwise avoid treatment to get the dental work that they need to keep optimal oral health. Also, sedation dentistry is safe with few side effects and risks. The effects also wear off rather quickly, and depending on the type of sedation, many patients can drive themselves home following treatment. 

Dental procedures that may require sedation dentistry

Common dental procedures, such as regular cleanings, do not require sedation dentistry, although minor sedation, such as nitrous oxide, may be available for minor procedures if the patient has anxiety. Several procedures that do require sedation include:

• Wisdom tooth extraction
• Dental implant placement
• TMJ surgery
• Bone grafting
• Emergency dental treatment

More common procedures, such as root canal therapy, may also require sedation dentistry. The best way to determine if you need sedation for your procedure is to discuss it with your dentist.

The risks of sedation dentistry

There are risks associated with sedation dentistry (as is the case with any medication), although dentists will ensure optimal safety for patients and conduct extensive screening before treatment. Potential risks of sedation dentistry include an allergic reaction, trouble breathing, heart complications and issues with blood pressure. If side effects do occur, they are typically minimal and go away on their own or with minor medical treatment.  

Sedation dentistry is a great way to manage pain

The fear of pain during a dental procedure does not have to hold you back from getting the dental work that you need. If you are concerned with pain during a dental procedure and want a safe and reliable form of sedation dentistry, then contact our team today to arrange a time for a consultation.

Are you considering sedation dentistry in the Turlock area? Get more information at https://www.kingdentistry.com.

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