This
four-part article series provides an in-depth overview of sedation
dentistry, what it is, how it works, the benefits it offers and what
patients can expect from its different methods of administration.
Welcome
to the final installment of this four-part article series on sedation
dentistry and what patients need and want to know about this very
beneficial branch of dental healthcare. Previously, in Part 3, an
experienced oral
surgeon in Colorado Springs
began describing the different methods for the administration of
sedation medications. We looked into oral
conscious sedation, which involves
taking one or two small pills about an hour prior to dental
treatment; and we looked at inhalation
sedation, which involves breathing in
a mixture of nitrous oxide gas and oxygen whilst in the dentist’s
chair. Both achieve the same wonderful, anxiety-free results.
Now,
let’s look at the final of the three primary modes of sedation
administration…
The
Primary Modes of Sedation, Continued
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation
For
intravenous (IV) sedation, as the name suggests, the calming
medications are administered directly into the bloodstream, via an
intravenous drip. The effects are similar to the other two methods
and will make a patient feel completely calm, relaxed and as though
they are in a dream-like state. They are unlikely to remember much
about their procedure, although they will be able to respond to the
dentist’s questions during treatment.
“The
procedure with IV sedation starts out the same as the other methods
in that we will sit you down and explain to you in detail what you
can expect before you undergo treatment,” says a Colorado Springs
dental implant dentist. “We’ll rub a little anesthetic gel on
your hand to make sure that you don’t feel any pain when we insert
the needle. Once everything is ready and you’re happy to proceed,
we’ll gently inject the sedative drug into the IV drip and you’ll
notice an increasing sense of sleepiness and relaxation. We’ll do
this gradually so that the onset of sedation doesn't alarm you.
“And
when you’re at the desired level of sedation, we’ll begin your
treatment. All the while we will be closely monitoring your vitals
and the administration of the medications. Once the procedure has
been completed, we’ll cease feeding the sedative into the IV tube
and you’ll be allowed to recover in your own time. You will
probably feel sleepy for quite some time after treatment, so don’t
expect to get in your car and drive off home!”
Some
Important Facts to Know About Sedation Dentistry
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courtesy of Free
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Not
all Colorado Springs implant dentists are qualified to offer their
patients sedation, which means that they will be required to call in
a specialist to do it for them. It’s often best to find a dental
implant surgeon who also has the necessary training and
qualifications to offer sedation, because it’s quicker, easier and
eliminates having to foot the bill for the specialist’s services.
You
will need to plan accordingly if you are going to be sedated for your
dental procedure or treatment. You must arrange transportation from
the dental office, because you won’t be fit to drive and you should
take the rest of the day off from work. Don’t plan any strenuous
activities either: rather have a good rest and wake up the following
morning completely recovered.
“In
addition to avoiding exercise or any strenuous activities, stay away
from alcohol and don’t eat a heavy meal straight after treatment,”
advises the Colorado Springs dental implant dentist. “Have a rest
first and then enjoy a light meal. You may experience the odd dizzy
spell after (especially) IV sedation, so try to limit your activity
and lie down if you do feel faint.”
Are
There Any Patients Who Aren’t Considered Candidates for Sedation?
Unfortunately,
yes, and they are:
- Patients who have a history of allergic reaction to sedation medications.
- Patients who are pregnant.
- Patients with glaucoma or any kind of kidney or lung problem.
- Patients with blood pressure or heart problems.
“Always
notify your dentist of any medications or of any allergies you may
have to medication, no matter how unrelated you think it may be,”
urge oral surgeons in Colorado Springs.
“We don’t care if you’ve been taking aspirin for a headache:
tell us about it. Being on medication or having an illness that might
keep you from receiving sedation doesn't mean you can’t receive treatment. We may be able to find a creative way around the problem
by seeking the advice of your doctor, so don’t despair.”
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