Sedation dentistry is the process by which the dental patient is sedated by a trained dentist. While the patient is sedated, the dentist performs the necessary dental procedures. Sedation dentistry is especially useful if you have a severe phobia or experience extensive anxiety with dental treatment. Some patients avoid receiving treatment due to anxiety or fear and, in so doing, put their dental health at risk.

 

 

Sedation dentistry is sometimes called sleep dentistry, which may be misleading. With sedation dentistry, a dental professional administers medication to a patient to produce a calm and relaxed feeling. Because of the sedation effect, you may feel sleepy, but you do not become unconscious like you would with general anesthesia.

 

IV sedation has long been used to produce a sedated effect in a dental patient and is generally safe and effective. However, alternative methods of administration, such as inhalation and oral sedation are also effective –– useful methods if you also feel anxiety or have a fear of “needles.”

 

 

Talk with your dentist about sedation options. Together you can decide what methods make the most sense for your particular needs. Your dentist will also be able to talk with you about the effects of the sedation and how you may react to the various options.