Sometimes it’s nice to take the scare out of the chair by getting a little help. ?Sedation dentistry (aka sleep dentistry) is a huge market, simply because it does just that. . .it takes the scare out of the chair. There are so many different types of sedation that you can have (oral conscious sedation, IV sedation, nitrous, etc), and although it’s not always necessary, it can really help reduce any anxiety you may have about your upcoming dental procedure. ?I have some patients that use sedation for the smallest things like even a dental cleaning! SO don’t be shy, if you are fearful of the dentist, ask about your options for sedation.
Now, if you and your dentist decide that sedation is the best option for you, then it’s important to know some important details about your appointment. ?Before we get into some details, know that you?ll have to sign a few documents and will most likely be given an information sheet telling you about things you should and shouldn?t do before and after your procedure is complete. If you will be having IV sedation, your anesthesiologist should call you at least 1 day before to go over some instructions with you. ?You?ll want to make sure that you?re following the instructions step-by-step because they are very important. Make sure to read them thoroughly and ask any questions you may have. ?Also, depending on the type of sedation you choose, you may need to schedule someone to drop you off and pick you up for your appointment! So be sure to ask if this is something that you will need to have arranged!
Let’s dive into some more details about sedation for dental procedures. Use the following tips in addition to what your dentist has already shared with you about your procedure. Don?t forget to ask your dentist any follow up questions before your procedure is started.
Tip 1: Make sure that your dentist is up-to-date on any health conditions that you may be experiencing that they are not aware of so that they can determine if sedation is a safe solution for you.
Updating your medical history with your dentist is extremely important and should be completed at least once a year. If you have had recent changes in your health history, then they should be completed right away!
Tip 2: Let your dentist know if you?re pregnant or could be pregnant before sedation. If ?you?re not sure, it?s always going to best to find out before going through with any procedure.
Although it’s okay to have dental work completed during pregnancy, there is definitely a difference when it comes to which trimester you should have the work completed in. ?Additionally, if the work is elective, you may want to pass if you’re pregnant. ?If the work is necessary and you have active infection, you can schedule this at a more optimal time in your pregnancy to have the work completed.
Tip 3: Wear comfortable and loose clothing to your appointment. ?
You want to be comfortable when you’re there. ?After all, you’re having sedation to feel more comfortable and to be at east, so make sure to wear something that’s comfortable for you. The more comfortable you are, the more comfortable your dentist will be working on you!
Tip 4: As I mentioned earlier, there are different kinds of sedation. You should decide with your dentist which option is best for you.
For example, if you want something to help relax you, you could opt for nitrous. ?The benefit of this is that you will be able to drive yourself to the appointment and back. ?Additionally, it’s usually much less expensive. ?However, if you are extremely fearful, and you want a deeper level of sedation such as IV sedation, you will need to arrange someone to drive you and pick you up from your appointment. ?IV sedation also tends to be more expensive because in most cases a board certified anesthesiologist is brought in to administer the medications for IV sedation.
Tip 5: Your oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, etc.) is going to be a key factor in making sure that you get the best results from your procedure.
While it may hurt or be a bit uncomfortable at first, it?s important that you don?t skip this. You just spent all this time and money on your mouth, and you need to do your homework by keeping your teeth clean and healthy. ?Ask your dentist for recommendations on products that you can use at home that will work best for you.
Following these tips in addition to what your dentist has already set up for you will help make sure that you have the best experience with your sedation and your procedure. If you have any questions feel free to ask below. I would also like to strongly encourage you to ask your dentist as well. Your dentist should be the one to help you decide which procedure and which type of sedation is best for you when it comes to your treatment. ?You should be able to trust them to help clear up any questions or concerns you may have.?
