Sedation Dentistry: Will I be “unconscious?"

As you begin to think about your upcoming dental visit, it’s natural that you will have questions about what you should expect. You’ve selected an experienced periodontist who offers sedation dentistry, and you have a complete understanding as to the periodontal treatment that has been recommended for you. Still, you may be wondering how you’ll feel during your appointment.

Many patients are understandably anxious or nervous about their pending appointment, but you will be relieved to know that there are some fantastic sedative and anesthetic options that will make your visit painless and even relaxing. Without rendering you completely unconscious, your periodontist can administer one or more medications that can bring your anxiety level down and bring your comfort level up.

Your sedation and anesthetic treatment plan will be based upon your current health, the types and dosages of the prescription and over-the-counter medication that you may be taking, and also your previous dental history. In addition to your health status, the type of procedure that has been planned for you and the expected length of the procedure can influence your choices for sedation and pain management. For example, a patient who is receiving periodontal therapy may require a milder level of sedation than a patient who is undergoing extensive reconstructive surgery.

A safe and commonly recommended (and commonly requested) form of sedation is Nitrous Oxide Analgesia. Sometimes known by the name Laughing Gas or Sweet Gas, a combination of oxygen and Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a soft nose mask. It’s safe for patients of any age, and helps to take the edge off for during minor periodontal procedures. When combined with local anesthetics or pain relievers, nitrous oxide can dull the sensation of pain and make the time spent in the dental chair a breeze.

For a deeper level of sedation while still allowing you to maintain consciousness and normal bodily function, conscious sedation is an ideal option for many patients. Though heavily relaxed, patients who opt for conscious sedation can still respond to verbal commands throughout the dental visit. Medications like Versed and Valium are typically used to promote this level of relaxation.

With sedation dentistry, it is possible to quiet your fears without being “put to sleep.”  Contact our periodontist at Park Cities Periodontics and Implant Dentistry today to learn more about your options.