What is Sedation Dentistry?
The use of oral conscious sedation, also referred to as sedation dentistry, is a beneficial option for patients who are fearful or apprehensive about going to the dentist’s office. Often, sedation dentistry is used to assist special-needs children, very frightened children, and adults with a phobia of the dentist. This is based on the concept that when a patient is allowed to be sedated during a procedure, he or she will feel more relaxed and heal better following the procedure since they are not as stressed.
How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Work?
Typically, oral sedation medications are Benzodiazepines. These medications are also commonly used for the treatment of panic and anxiety disorders. They decrease the excessive activity of nerves in the brain and the central nervous system, allowing patients to relax and feel calm.
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What is a Dental Visit Like with Sedation Dentistry?
Patients will typically need to avoid eating or drinking during the six hours before their visit. At the practice, the doctor will frequently provide patients with a pill to take roughly one hour before their dental procedure. This will make patients very relaxed and sleepy. Once the medicine is fully working the dental treatment will be performed. When the treatment is complete, patients will be allowed to return home with the help of a friend or family member. Sedation dentistry has an amnesic effect. This means that the patient will not remember anything experienced during the procedure.
Who Can Undergo Sedation at the Dentist?
Adults and children who have a greater fear which is hindering them from visiting the dentist or from having an effective treatment are the optimal candidates for sedation dentistry. It is ideal for patients who:
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Have a low pain threshold
- Are seriously nervous or scared
- Have sensitive teeth
- Can’t sit still
- Require a large amount of work
- Have panic attacks
Frequently Asked Questions
To help our patients make informed decisions about their oral health, here are some quick answers to common questions about sedation dentistry at The Dental Sedation Center.
Are There Any Conditions That Make a Patient Ineligible for Sedation Dentistry?
Eligibility for sedation dentistry depends on various factors, including the patient’s medical history and current health. Dr. Patric Cohen and our team will assess individual situations to determine eligibility. Certain medical conditions (e.g., severe respiratory issues, uncontrolled high blood pressure) or medications (e.g., specific blood thinners) may affect eligibility for sedation, but we aim to provide the safest and most comfortable experience possible.
How Long Does the Effect of Oral Conscious Sedation Typically Last?
The duration of oral conscious sedation varies from patient to patient. Dr. Cohen will discuss this with you during your consultation, but generally, the effects can last for a few hours after the procedure. It's important to have a responsible adult accompany the patient to and from the appointment and stay with them for a few hours following the procedure because of this.
Will the Dentist Review My Medical History Before Administering Sedation?
Absolutely. Dr. Cohen takes safety seriously. Before administering sedation, a comprehensive review of the patient’s medical history is conducted to ensure we tailor the sedation approach to their specific needs and avoid any potential complications.
What Is the Difference Between Local Anesthesia and Sedation Dentistry?
Local anesthesia numbs a specific area for a procedure, while sedation dentistry relaxes the patient and can alter their awareness during the procedure. Local anesthesia is often used in combination with sedation for pain control and comfort.
How Can I Discuss My Concerns With the Dentist Before the Procedure?
We encourage open communication. Dr. Cohen is dedicated to addressing all patient concerns and preferences, so we schedule a consultation where they can discuss their worries, preferences, and any questions they may have about the procedure. After all, our patients’ comfort and understanding are our priorities.
Will I Be Able to Communicate With the Dental Team During the Procedure?
Whether or not sedated dental patients will be able to communicate during their procedure depends on the type and level of sedation used. It's crucial for Dr. Cohen and his team to communicate clearly with the patient before and during the procedure, explaining the level of sedation and what to expect in terms of communication.
Which Procedures Can Be Performed with Sedation Dentistry?
Oral conscious sedation can be used for a variety of dental treatments and procedures. It can relax patients during routine teeth cleanings, and it is also an ideal option for more extensive procedures like dental implant placement and root canals. Oral sedation makes it possible for the dentist to perform more extensive work in a smaller number of visits.
Which Dosage Will Be Used?
There are different types of sedation used at the practice:
- Minimal- awake but calm
- Moderate-slurring words are common, won’t remember the treatment
- Deep- edge of consciousness, can be roused
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The dosage varies from patient to patient based on several factors. The patient’s body weight, any existing medical issues, and the degree of anxiety felt can all play a role. When oral sedation medications are administered to children, they are used in smaller doses.
Oral conscious sedation’s effect lasts between one and five hours. The exact amount of time it will last is affected by the exact dosage given and the patient’s metabolism.
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Is the Process Safe?
Since our office employs the most innovative sedation techniques and our doctors have been trained to administer sedation, it is designed to be safe. There are always some risks when using anesthesia, but our experienced staff is more than capable of administering sedation. Before any treatment, the dentist will go over medical history to ensure that any special measures which need to be taken are addressed.
Contact Our Office
To learn more about sedation dentistry, Beverly Hills patients can contact The Dental Sedation Center and arrange a consultation with experienced cosmetic dentist and sedation dentistry specialist Dr. Patric Cohen.
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