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Sedation dentistry is a term that refers to the use of anesthesia during treatment to put patients into a relaxed state, almost like sleep. Sedation dentistry is often used during procedures that require an extensive amount of time in the treatment chair, and sedation is ideal for patients who exhibit dental phobia or have difficulty controlling their movements (this includes children). While sedation dentistry implies that patients are unconscious, there are different types of sedation that can be offered. Some forms of sedation dentistry simply alleviate anxiety or put patients in a sleep-like state, so that little is felt or remembered from the dentistry procedure.The sedation dentistry technique recommended by your dentist will depend upon the treatment being performed and/or the degree of your dental anxiety. Your dentist will be able to tell you if you are a candidate for moderate sedation with oral sedatives or nitrous oxide, or deeper sedation with intravenous drugs.
Sedation Dentistry Candidates
Candidates for sedation dentistry include patients with a fear of needles or other dental anxiety, as well as individuals who require complex treatment and would like their treatment performed during a single, pain-free appointment.
Dental Anxiety
Some patients (including children) have a natural fear of the dentist, while others have had a traumatic dental experience in their past that has made them reluctant to seek treatment again. Many patients find their anxiety is eased when they undergo procedures while in a sleep-like state. Learn more about sedation dentistry as a solution to dental phobia and anxiety.
Dental Sedation Methods
Many patients assume sedation dentistry will put them completely to sleep; however, sedation dentistry techniques that can be utilized to achieve varying degrees of relaxation don’t always require you to be unconscious.
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