Sedation dentistry is no longer a foreign term to many today. The term is used to describe the technique used by dentists to provide dental treatment with a relaxing and anxiety-free experience. That sounds great, right? If you’ve had this experience before, you’ll agree to the fact that it feels as though the procedure took only a few minutes when it actually took hours.
Most patients avoid dental visits due to dental anxiety or rather dental phobia.
Now, we both know that regular dental visits are beneficial and will help you maintain your oral health. Those who tend to avoid regular dental care end up neglecting the oral health and appearance leading to dental problems. While some people fear the injections most are usually afraid of the dental procedure. Realize that dentists are friendly people and you can always discuss with them your fears so that they can help in addressing them. At times, the dental anxiety may stop after discussing with the dentist about the planned procedure.
How Does the Technique Work?
Do you remember that calm and relaxed sensation during the dental procedure? Well, this happens because your central nervous system (CNS) has been pharmacologically altered. Your dentist uses a sedative medication such as anxiolytics, sleeping pills, or tranquilizers to induce the sedation.
In your next dental visit, you’ll take the oral medication before being safely transported by a friend or family member for your appointment. Although you’ll be awake upon arrival, you’ll be feeling drowsy. The good thing is that you’ll feel relaxed. That feeling of anxiety won’t be there. Most people think that they will be unconscious after the oral medication. No, you’ll be very conscious enjoying a mental and emotional “freedom” as the procedure is done.
The dentist will carry out the dental procedure in seemingly little time and you’ll be free to go home. Of course, you’ll need someone to drive you home. It is important that you rest until the medication wears off. You don’t have to avoid a dental procedure because of fear and anxiety. Seek advice from a dentist or rather discuss with him about your fears and you’ll be able to have the much needed dental procedure you’d have otherwise avoided. You will remember very little about your visit afterwards.