An Anxiety-Free Dental Experience

By Annette Scott, DDS, PC

Annette E. Scott, DDS, PC

. http://www.scottdentalcare.com/

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An Anxiety-Free Dental Experience

A significant number of Americans do not visit the dentist regularly because they are too fearful or suffer from dental anxiety.  Sedation dentistry offers an excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety-free, dental experience. It is popular because most sedatives can be taken by mouth, meaning no injections, no anxiety and no pain.   Sedation dentistry offers both the individual and the dentist the best alternative.

Here are some advantages associated with sedation dentistry.

Anxiety is alleviated.

Few side effects.

More can be accomplished during each visit.

No needles.

No pain.

Perfectly safe.

Procedures take less time.

What kinds of sedatives
are available?

Here is an overview of some of the most common types of dental sedatives:

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is used as a mild sedative.  It is delivered through a nose hood, and is administered throughout the entire procedure.  It elevates the general mood and can evoke a general sense of well-being.  Most importantly, it relieves anxiety and reduces pain.

IV Sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation is a moderate type of sedation.  Patients who have previously experienced IV sedation often report feeling like they slept through the entire procedure. It is administered via direct injection into the bloodstream, which means the effects are immediate.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral medication is provided prior to treatment in order to induce a moderate state of sedation then topped up during the procedure as required.  Though oral sedatives do not cause sleep, they usually dull the senses.  Most patients cannot remember the pain, smells or noises associated with the procedure.

What types of drugs are used in oral conscious sedation?

Most of the drugs used in sedation dentistry are classified as benzodiazepines.  Benzodiazepines reduce anxiety, muscle spasms, insomnia and seizures.  The effects of each medication last for varying amounts of time.

Here are some of the most common drugs used in oral conscious sedation:

Valium^® – This sedative has amnesic properties usually used for time-consuming, complex procedures.

Halcion^® – Usually used to treat insomnia, Halcion is an effective sedative with amnesic properties.  It is used during shorter procedures.

Ativan^® – This sedative is best known for reducing anxiety.  It has amnesic properties and is typically used for treatments shorter than two hours.

Versed^® – It alleviates anxiety in much the same way as nitrous oxide, and is used for visits that will take less than 30 minutes.