Sedation dentistry may be a favorable option for you if you’re the type who thinks that dental clinics are some of the world’s scariest places. It may sound odd, but surveys show that a lot of people really are hesitant to go to the dentist because of fear, and this is most probably due to the close association between dental procedures and pain. A lot of people bring this fear from childhood to adulthood.
Aside from budget concerns, the fear of dental procedres is another reason why a lot of people do not get dental care as often as they should. The dental chair, the dental equipments, the small pliers that are used in your mouth – they all make up what seems to be your personal torture chamber especially since you’ll be lying in the chair helpless and defenseless the whole time. Due to this, some people even have major phobia about going to the dentist.
Some, however, simply can’t take lying in the chair for a long time without doing anything. If it’s not fear of pain, it could also be awkwardness. Being uncomfortable for a long period of time can also cause anxiety in a person. A lot of people try to avoid this situation as much as possible. And as you struggle with your fear or anxiety, your dental problems could be getting worse by the minute, and the treatment you need could be growing more complicated and painful at the same time. This is one strong reason why you should consider sedation dentistry.
Key Facts about Sedation Dentistry: What You Need to Know Before You Let Dentists Numb You
- What is sedation dentistry?
- How does it work?
- How much does it cost?
1. What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is when you ask your dentist to sedate you prior and all throughout your dental procedure so you won’t feel any pain that the procedure may cause. The procedure is safe, but it has risks involved, so before getting into it, make sure you have researched about it and have thoroughly discussed it with your dentist.
No needles are used during the sedation process to make sure that those who have fear of needles can also avail of the said procedure. If needles are to be used during the following dental treatment procedure, the patient will no longer feel it due to the sedation.
2. How does it work?
If you want to get sedated, your dentist will give you an orally administered sedative some time before your actual procedure.
Sedation dentistry is known to be very effective for when the patients are scheduled to have long and painful dental procedures. This is usually recommended for when the procedures are more complex and extensive, but it is not deemed necessary for minor dental procedures. When you are sedated, you are placed in a pain-free, comfortable state although you remain conscious throughout the entire procedure. This is not only a shield against pain. It is also considered very effective for those who have difficulty sitting still for long hours.
Procedures such as complicated extractions, root canals, and oral surgeries usually goes well with sedation dentistry. With the patients placed in a more relaxed mode, the dentist can work more peacefully, more efficiently, and in a more concentrated manner. Thus, it helps to ensure the proper flow of the treatment and can prevent problems from occurring during treatment.
3. How much does it cost?
Sedation dentistry will require you to pay a certain amount added to the cost of the dental procedure you avail of. Usually, oral sedation will cost you somewhere between $200 and $300. It is also a bit expensive, so it is necessary that you think about it first before actually getting sedated.
Safety Concerns of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry do come with certain safety concerns. If you are set to get sedated, you cannot go to the dental clinic alone. You need to bring a companion who can drive you home after the procedure. You should also be with someone at all times during the first few hours after the procedure until the sedation wears out completely. Aside from these minor safety precautions, sedation dentistry is guaranteed safe and will have no effects whatsoever on your overall health.