Latest Dental News: Cleveland doctor practices sedation dentistry
Are you afraid of going to the dentist? If so, you are not alone. An estimated one-third of Americans do not go to the dentist because they are afraid of the potential pain and discomfort. This can lead to many problems because cavities, gum disease, and more go undetected and untreated. This can lead to root canals and tooth loss down the road once the pain becomes more than they can bear.
While many dentists claim to “cater to cowards,” even the nicest of dentists can still leave their patients nervous wrecks. Sedation dentistry is a completely different approach to treating patients and their teeth.
Sedation dentistry is used to provide a relaxing and calming experience for the patient. This is achieved by using varying levels of treatment depending on the patient and the procedure. The most common form is nitrous oxide which is administered throughout the procedure through a nasal mask or hood. The patient still knows what is going on around him, but is much calmer and more relaxed. It also serves to numb the gums, which can make injections easier.
Another option is IV sedation, which delivers the medication intravenously for an immediate result. Unlike nitrous oxide, it induces more of a sleep-like consciousness. It is best used when patients are extremely anxious or scared.
For those who do not like needles, a third option is oral conscious sedation. One benefit of this treatment is that patients do not remember the experience, although they are able to move and respond to the dentist throughout.
Because of the serious nature of the medication, people who use any of these treatments during their dental procedure will need to be driven home. The medication does not wear off quickly enough for the patient to have recovered sufficiently to drive.
If you are afraid of the dentist, that is not reason to put off the treatment that you desperately need for proper dental health. Talk to your dentist about whether he or she performs sedation dentistry. If not, you should look into finding someone else in your area that does.
Source: Sedation Dentistry: Solving Dental Care Concerns For Anxious Patients
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