Sedation Dentistry Side Effects

When one addresses the scenario of risk versus reward, sedation dentistry by Downtown Dental Excellence is a good example of a good risk. With an estimated 30 to 40 million Americans experiencing some level of dental anxiety or dental phobias, sedation dentistry can negate those anxieties and allow you to maintain good oral hygiene with your teeth and gums. After all, not visiting the dentist is not a viable option when you consider that all of your bodily nutrition enters through the portal of your mouth.

What causes Dental Anxiety

Some folks just totally tense up with fear when you simply mention getting your teeth cleaned. Others would struggle through a toothache versus even stepping foot into a dental office. These feelings could be the result of their fear of pain. It could be the result of a previous dental procedure and pain or discomfort associated with that. Some people develop a phobia if they think they feel helpless or have lost control in the dental chair while others simply get embarrassed with someone in their mouth. Whatever the situation a form a sedation dentistry can be the easy answer.

The Types of Sedation Dentistry

The four levels of sedation deliver different results when it comes to relaxation, consciousness and unconsciousness. Each will have varying degrees of side effects but again, none are detrimental. Your first level of sedation is breathing in nitrous oxide, or laughing gas. This is very easy to control and does not last long. The second type of sedation is a sedative delivered orally with a pill an hour before the procedure making you drowsy but still awake. The third level of sedation is an IV medication. Delivered intravenous this allows the dentist to monitor the dose or add if necessary. This level will put you right on the edge of consciousness. The final method is general anesthesia where you will become unconscious. This is used primarily with oral surgery. Each and any one of these can be used based on your own level of anxiety and how severe it might be for you and the dentist to deal with.

The Various Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry

Have you taken a sleeping aid in the past? Have you noticed how you might feel upon awakening? Some of the side effects are much the same. The first and foremost side effect across all the sedation methods is that of drowsiness. You may have been alert enough to communicate with the dentist but once the sedation wears off you may not have any real recollection of the procedure. Some patients will experience a dry mouth or others may complain of a headache. A fogginess is a strange sensation that some patients will also experience. If you are scheduling a procedure and you and your dentist have agreed on the type of sedation to be used it would be most wise to find a ride to your appointment. You won’t be comfortable driving after your procedure is finished, nor will it really be safe to do so. Have that consultation with your dentist today if you experience dental anxiety and get your teeth and gums examined.

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