SEDATION DENTISTRY

WHAT IS SEDATION DENTISTRY?

In sedation dentistry, some medications are used to help patients relax in the dental chair during dental procedures. Occasionally it is called sleep dentistry, although not entirely correct. Patients are usually awake but completely relaxed and not anxious.

DO I NEED NUMBING INJECTION WITH SEDATION?

Yes, sedation only helps patients to relax in the dental chair. The dental procedures are carried out after giving the local anesthetic injection to numb the teeth.

IS SEDATION SAFE?

Sedation medications are completely safe and administered by a qualified anesthetist while the dentist carries out the dental procedures. There are various monitoring devices that are used to monitor the patients during and after the dental procedure.

WHO CAN HAVE SEDATION DENTISTRY?

Generally, fit and well young but anxious individuals with no sinister medical conditions are the ideal candidates for sedation dentistry. The dentist will take a detailed medical history including any history of drug allergy before the procedure and would be able to advice if sedation dentistry is recommended for you or not.

HOW ARE SEDATION MEDICATIONS GIVEN?

Sedation medications can be inhalation, oral medication or intravenous medications. The dentist along with the anesthetist will be able to discuss the various options with you and advice what suits you the best. Generally, it depends on the level of anxiety of the patients, the difficulty and duration of the procedure.

CAN I DRIVE AFTER SEDATION? 

No. After undergoing sedation dentistry you are strictly prohibited from driving back home or for the next 24 to 48 hours. The dentist would normally advice you to bring someone along with you to drive you back home and take care of you at home after these procedures.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SEDATION DENTISTRY AND GENERAL ANESTHESIA

During general anesthesia, patients are completely asleep. The anesthetic medication is given through a tube placed into the windpipe of patients. While in sedation dentistry, patients are completely awake but a little drowsy. General anesthesia will be given only in operation theatres in a full fledges hospital, whereas sedation dentistry can be carried out in dental clinics.