If you experience dental anxiety or have difficulty sitting still, sedation dentistry of Seven Oaks Dental Centre can help you remain calm and comfortable while you receive the treatment you need. Sedation uses anesthesia to induce relaxation in patients. While some types simply produce a sense of peace, others create a deep state of relaxation closer to sleep. If you are concerned about your treatment, it may be worthwhile to discuss sedation options with your dentist.
Who Can Receive Dental Sedation?
Seven Oaks Dental Center may recommend sedation if you suffer from:
- Dental anxiety
- Difficulty controlling movements
- Resistance to local anesthetics
- Dental sensitivity
For patients who have had traumatic dental experiences or who are afraid of needles, sedation dentistry offers a way to pursue necessary dental treatment without triggering anxiety attacks. Even if you are comfortable in the dentist’s chair, dental sedation can make it easier to undergo longer appointments for extensive dental work.
Sedation dentistry in Seven Oaks Dental Centre ensures you are comfortable throughout your procedure.
When to Use Dental Sedation
Most dental procedures can take place under sedation. In fact, patients with severe dental phobia may even receive cleanings under mild sedation. However, it is much more common for complex procedures which take a long time to complete, such as:
- Complex extractions
- Wisdom tooth removal
- Dental implant placement surgery
- Bone grafts
- Gum surgery
Levels of Sedation There are four main levels of sedation:
Light sedation
Also known as anxiolysis, this degree of sedation is the most commonly used in dental procedures.
Conscious sedation
Moderate levels of dental sedation allow you to respond to commands while still in a state of extreme relaxation.
Deep sedation
At this level, patients are typically right at the edge of unconsciousness. You may drift off to sleep, but your dentist will still be able to wake you to communicate.
Unconsciousness
Generally reserved for oral surgery, this level of sedation leaves patients completely unaware and without memory of their procedure. In most cases, this state is achieved through general anesthesia.
The degree of sedation your dentist recommends will depend on the type of procedure you plan to undergo and your comfort level.
Types of Sedation
The most common forms of sedation used in dentistry include:
- Nitrous oxide for light sedation
- Oral sedatives for conscious sedation
- Intravenous (IV) medication for deep sedation