3 Types Of Sedation Dentistry

Posted on: 16 February 2015

If you are fearful of going to the dentist, you aren't alone. Many people put off dental appointments that should be kept because of having extreme anxiety of sitting in the dental chair. However, there are ways to help you overcome this fear and get the necessary amount of dental work you need for your teeth. Knowing the various types of sedation that is offered to you can help you choose the best one to suit your individual needs.

Oral sedation

One of the easiest ways to help you relax during a dental procedure is oral sedation. This involves taking a pill that typically begins to work in a short amount of time. Most dentists, such as Dr. Frank W. Sallustio, recommend that you take this medication 30 minutes prior to your visit.

Listed below are types of oral sedation medications:

1. Halicon – This medication is typically given during a complex dental procedure and often will allow you to be groggy and not recall the dental work after it has been completed.

2. Valium – One way to help you face a dental appointment is by taking Valium before your visit. Doing so will allow you to feel relaxed, and this will help decrease your anxiety while getting the necessary amount of work done to your teeth.

3. Xanax – If you only have a small amount of dental anxiety, you may be able to only take this medication, which is a mild sedative.

Laughing Gas

This dental sedation method is commonly used and will involve you inhaling nitrous oxide before the work is completed. Many dental patients prefer this method because it is painless and effective in reaching the desired state of relaxation when at the dental office.

General Anesthesia

If you prefer to be totally unconscious when having your dental work completed, general anesthesia will be used. This is known as deep sedation and may be selected for extremely difficult dental procedures, such as tooth extractions or root canals.

The use of general anesthesia will prevent you from being able to respond to any commands that are made by the dental professional.

Finally, it is important to the health of your teeth to choose a dental sedation method that will allow you to get any necessary work completed. Take the time to discuss your options with your dentist to help determine which one will best suit your needs and address you anxiety effectively.

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