Sedation Dentistry

A proven method for enabling fearful s to receive the dental care they need, sedation dentistry provide an ideal alternative to avoiding the severe anxiety some people may associate with dental treatment, known as dental phobia.

Up to a third of the population delays necessary dental treatment because of fear of the pain and discomfort that may be involved, based on figures from the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, a specialized dental association that is committed to guaranteeing all patients an opportunity to obtain reliable, relaxed and fear-free dental care. This fairly common dental phobia thwarts anxious patients from seeking regular dental care, which eventually leads to real pain and poor mouth health and function.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

The procedure used for sedation dentistry creates a tranquil, unworried feeling with sedative drugs. Various drugs, (tranquillizers, depressants, anti-anxiety medications, nitrous oxide, etc.) may be dispensed in a mixture of ways. Generally, sedation dentistry patients have several choices, including the inhalation of nitrous oxide, however oral sedation dentistry is now the most widespread method used throughout the United States and Canada to subdue a patient's anxieties. The procedure is uncomplicated and uses no needles, which usually adds additional appeal for most people.

A wonderful feature of sedation dentistry is that the procedure is so relaxed and worry free that most patients feel as though they did not have any dental work done at all. Although they actually are at a slight level of consciousness, which is necessary for their safety and cooperation, they will often leave the office commenting that they must have fallen asleep.

Although sedation dentistry is an amazing benefit for the anxious patient, there will still be a need for a local anesthetic to be injected in the mouth prior to the actual treatments to beginning. This local anesthetic injection blocks pain from the affected teeth and gum tissue. Usually, this injection will be given after the patient has already been sedated and is relaxed, so the memory of that feeling may be dulled, also.

It will be important for you to have a friend or family member escort you to and from your dental appointment, and see you safely into your home afterwards.

What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

One of the greatest benefits of sedation dentistry is that patients often comment that it seemed as though their dental treatment only took a very few minutes, when in actuality it may have taken an hour or much longer. Consequently, intricate dental procedures that would typically require several appointments can often be performed in many less.

If you have been hesitant to transform the look of your smile because you are fearful or apprehensive about undergoing lengthy or difficult dental procedures, sedation dentistry will make you feel at ease during the entire treatment process and help you realize a smile you will be delighted with.

In addition, since sedation dentistry calms the anxieties that kept the patient from seeking treatment in the first place, those same people will be much more likely to return for their required regular care. As an effect of this better overall oral health, less extreme dental procedures may be needed in the future.

Are Sleep Dentistry and Sedation Dentistry the Same Thing?

Sedation dentistry has sometimes been referred to as sleep dentistry, but is not accurate. In truth, patients do not sleep during their treatments, however, because of the sensation induced by the sedative, it may seem as though they did.

Sedation dentistry allows the patient to remain awake during their entire dental treatment, however they feel so calm and comfortable they may not recall much about the visit at all. Sedation dentistry does not involve the use of general anesthesia.

Will My Insurance Cover Sedation Dentistry?

Based on information obtained from DOCS Education, insurance companies do not pay for sedation dentistry; however, some non-intravenous sedation procedure codes may apply to your treatment course. Speak to your dental office manager to learn more about how best to submit the correct forms to have your sedation dentistry covered. As an example, if your dentist can show that four appointments were accomplished in just one, because sedation dentistry was used, your insurance company may well see the value.

Sedation Dentistry Methods

The various methods used in sedation dentistry differ in potency and purpose. Your dentist will discuss your options for sedation dentistry, which will be dependent on the necessary procedures and how long they will take. This will be weighed against the degree of your fear. Ultimately your dentist will decide what sedatives will be best for you, however you may request stronger sedatives if you know that you suffer from acute anxiety.

The intensity of sedation varies from slight, to modest, to very deep and is attained through various types of sedatives. The Academy of General Dentistry has determined that sedation dentistry is safe, however recommends that patients fully discuss all that is involved with their dentist prior to any procedures.

In order to make certain that the correct sedatives are given to you, your sedation dentist will have need of your medical history, and a complete list of all medications you are using, including any over the counter products and herbal supplements.

Anxiolysis

Anxiolysis is a very slight sedation and is given to relieve low-level anxiety. Inhalation analgesia, also known as nitrous oxide or 'laughing gas', is one of the more frequently requested types of anesthesia by patients who have fears regarding dental treatments. It is delivered through a small nose-hood by which the nitrous oxide is administered before and during the treatment. Besides some prickling and a lack of sensation, nitrous oxide characteristically induces a general feeling of well-being. Oral medication is also effective for creating a state of anxiolysis. It is vital that you are honest with your sedation dentist about any past drug use or current medical conditions so that the suitable medication may be chosen.

Moderate Sedation

Moderate sedation is a lowered level of consciousness, meaning you are breathing on your own, you have retained your reflexes and you can respond to verbal and physical promptings. Currently, oral conscious sedation is the method of sedation dentistry most commonly used. Oral sedation is often given to the patient prior to the appointment to reduce the awareness of pain, and the general sounds and smells of the dentist office. The patient is directed to take the medication before being brought to their appointment by a friend or family member and may receive additional medication if required during treatment.

Intravenous Sedation

Intravenous sedation often causes patients to feel as though they had been asleep. The main difference between oral and intravenous sedation is the delivery of the medication. Delivered by injection, intravenous sedation carries an almost instantaneous effect and is best used for brief dental procedures. One common side effect of both intravenous sedation and oral sedation is amnesia, which can cause patients to believe that their treatment lasted much less time than it actually did.

Intramuscular Sedation

Intramuscular sedation, which requires an injection of sedative medication directly into the muscles of the upper arm or upper thigh, can result in sedation within just a few minutes. Its use in sedation dentistry is fairly rare.

Choosing a Sedation Dentist

Sedation dentistry treatments should only be performed by a dentist and staff specifically trained in sedation procedures. In the case of oral conscious sedation, for example, such training normally requires between 18 and 25 hours of specialized education.

The American Dental Association and most state dental boards and colleges insist that dentists have dedicated training in sedative techniques, equipment, medications and medical history analysis before practicing in that field.

If you regard as yourself to be a fearful or anxious patient and are nervous about even regular dental visits, let alone any necessary treatments, you should consider sedation dentistry.

Education

Ask about the dentist's level of specialized education in sedation dentistry. Dental school does go over the basics of sedation dentistry; however, you may want to choose a dentist who is trained beyond that.

Ongoing Training

A dentist's participation in organizations such as DOCS offers occasions for ongoing education and training in sedation dentistry procedures and new techniques. Training opportunities are also available through the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology and the American Society of Dental Anesthesiologists. Inquire if the dentist you are considering attends education programs sponsored by any of these groups.

In-Office Patient Monitoring

Monitoring equipment is vital to the safe practice of sedation dentistry. The use of a pulse oximeter, oxygen equipment and reversal medication agents in the very rare case of an adverse reaction during a procedure, must all be in place before your treatment begins.

Once you have made the decision to obtain sedation dentistry, be certain to carefully read over the Informed Consent form for additional details about the procedure, equipment, benefits and risks connected with your treatment. An experienced sedation dentist should have an inclusive form and be willing to spend time with you to discuss any concerns or questions you have regarding sedation dentistry. Also, ask about pre- and post-treatment directives. This knowledge will better prepare you and your accompanying person for the day of your treatment.

DISCLAIMER

Statements made in this article are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be substituted for the advice of a medical professional. Information and statements have not been evaluated by the American Dental Association or any federal regulation agency and are not intended to diagnose, or treat any disease or medical condition. I do not claim to represent the opinions of any dental or medical professionals. No article is a substitute for a visit to a qualified, board certified dentist or physician who can deal with your situation personally.