Conscious Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is now used to help patients with anxiety on dental procedures. This way, the patient will no longer feel stressed as the dental process goes on. Often, the dentist uses two types of sedatives. These are oral or intravenous. The dentist will determine what sedative is applicable for the procedure and what route it should be administered.

When is the right time to use oral sedation?

Since oral sedation is pill or liquid swallowed with water, it is easier to use than IV. There are standards when to use this. These are:

1. 1. The patient should be conscious and not yet hysterical.
   2. The patient is considering a more affordable intervention to deal with this anxiety.
   3. The patient is able to swallow tablets. Toddler patients, as well as some older patients may have hard time swallowing tablets (but there are liquid form for these patients).
   4. The patient becomes more stressed with the sight of needles.
   5. The patient is willing to extend the time of the procedure for at least 1 hour or more. Or they can take it before the appointment and have someone drive them.
   6. Can not drive after the procedure. Need a ride.

Are there any guidelines regarding IV sedation dentistry?

If you are considering IV sedation, here are the things you have to prepare for:

1. IV is expensive.
2. Have company. The dentist will not administer IV sedation unless you have a friend or a family member to assist you after the procedure. After-effects of the sedative might cause you to feel groggy.
3. Allocate more time for the dental visit. You have to wear off the sedation effect.

What are the advantages of IV sedation over oral sedation?

IV sedation dentistry is more fast-acting that oral sedation. It is because the sedating agent will go straight to your bloodstream and almost automatically affect your body. Oral, on the other hand, takes time to be assimilated into your veins. IV sedation also allows the sedating agent to wear off rapidly compared to orals.

However, this technique is more dangerous. The amount of the sedative should be properly measured. Otherwise, complications will occur.

What are other special advantages of IV sedation technique?

Here are the facts you have to know before considering IV sedation on your dental visit:

• Conscious sedation in dentistry can be done through this technique.
• IV sedation is the most effective and powerful technique over other types of sedation.
• Sedation will last for a very short time. So, the dentist has to work fast. (although it can be extended by adding more sedative)
• IV is typically used for oral surgery. It is the dentist’s prerogative if he will allow you to use this method. However, this prerogative is according to the safety regulations of the use of this method.
• This administration should only be done by an expert medical dentist. General dentists are not qualified to handle this technique unless they have taken the course and been certified.

What important things you need to know about oral sedation?

Oral sedation is an easier method of easing the phobia for dental visits. Here are the things you have to know:

• Benzodiazepines are the active agents in oral sedatives.
• It comes in liquid form or pill.
• Oral sedation dentistry is given to patients whose veins are difficult to locate.
• More affordable than IV sedation.

Calm yourself and ask your dentist about conscious dental sedation for your dental procedure.

By: Ladan Zinati