Who is a good candidate for sedation in dentistry?
Well, pretty much almost anybody. If you're a little anxious or nervous about an upcoming dental procedure, or if it's going to take a long time, we can absolutely do that. You come in, we'll put you to sleep, and you basically wake up, and everything's done. There are a few people we can't do this on, like those with chronic lung diseases or people on at-home oxygen, as it's probably not safe in an outpatient environment like the dental office. But other than that, most people can be sedated if that's something you want to do.
What is the difference between sedation and general anesthesia?
Oftentimes, I'm asked about the difference between sedation and general anesthesia. There are various ways we can make you comfortable by giving you medications. We can use laughing gas or nitrous oxide, which doesn't necessarily put you to sleep but calms you down. Another way is to take a pill, sometimes called the "chill pill," which is an anti-anxiety medication that makes you feel sleepy. General anesthesia involves our anesthesiologist, Dr. Merill, who would put an IV in your arm, give you some medicine, and you're asleep. He monitors all your vital signs, making it very safe and effective, especially for anxious people.
What is nitrous oxide, and why do dentists use it?
I'm often asked about nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. It's been used for a couple of hundred years, and it's still very effective. We can give you a little more or less as needed. It helps take away anxiety and calms you down, but it doesn't necessarily make you sleep. Many people do well with nitrous oxide.
What is IV sedation dentistry, and when would you recommend it?
IV sedation involves putting a needle into one of your veins, typically in your arm or hand. The needle is quickly replaced by a plastic tube. Our anesthesiologist can give you the right amount of medication to be totally asleep and comfortable during the procedure.
What drug is commonly used for IV sedation?
In our office, Dr. Merill, our anesthesiologist, usually uses a combination of medications, with propofol being the primary one used throughout the procedure to keep you asleep.
Is sedation dentistry safe for everyone, including children?
Yes, as long as we review your medical history and ensure that sedation is appropriate. It's a very safe way to get your dental work done. Many people experience sedation as instantaneous, even for lengthy procedures, making it a great option for anxious individuals.
How does pediatric sedation differ from adult sedation?
We can perform sedation for all age ranges at Matheson Dentistry. There are differences in drug types and amounts based on age. Dr. Merill tailors the treatment plan for each individual, ensuring safety for children and elderly patients alike.
Are there risks or side effects associated with sedation?
Like any procedure, there are risks and side effects. Some people may feel a bit queasy or have a sore throat if a breathing tube was used, but we're prepared to address these immediately. Cool drinks or ice cream can help soothe a sore throat.
How can I request sedation dentistry?
Anyone interested in sedation can contact our office. We're happy to discuss your needs. You can schedule a free consultation to talk about what sedation would be like for you.
How do I prepare for a dental appointment with sedation?
Do not eat for seven hours or drink for three hours before your appointment, except for a small sip of water to take medications.
What should I do if I have concerns about the safety of sedation?
If you have concerns about sedation safety, please call us. We offer a free consultation to discuss how sedation would work for you and ensure it's safe.