by JaneGabriela

Sedation versus Sleep Dentistry

Many people have severe anxiety about going to the dentist. This may lead to years of avoiding semi-annual checkups, which can lead to poor dental health. Visiting you dentist regularly is an important part of maintaining good overall health, not only in your mouth, but your body. Thankfully, there is a solution that is becoming popular for people who have a fear of seeing a dentist. This involves sleep or sedation dentistry.

Types of Sedation and Sleep Dentistry

Sleep dentistry and sedation dentistry are often used interchangeably. They are very similar to one another, but under sedation dentistry, you will be still be conscious. There are three different types of sedation dentistry:

• The first is nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas”, and this is the lightest form of sedation. This non-toxic gas gives you a sense of relaxation and calmness. Nitrous oxide works very quickly once administered and it can easily be controlled. One benefit of this form of sedation is that it has very few side effects. If this is the type that your doctor and you choose, you will be able to safely drive to and from your appointment.

• The second option is oral sedation, which is a slightly stronger form of sedation dentistry. With oral sedation, your dentist will provide you with an oral medication that you will have to take approximately one hour before your appointment. This type of sedation gives you a very strong calming feeling and it will keep you relaxed and at ease during the procedure. Oral sedation also has an amnesic affect, so typically you will not remember much, if anything, about your procedure. This being said, it is important to have someone available who can drive you to and from your dental appointment.

• The third sedation option available is called conscious sedation. It is similar to oral sedation in that a pill is administered before the procedure. This sedative will allow you to enter a state of very deep relaxation. Sometimes you may even drift in and out of sleep. Under this form of sedation, you will be able to talk, as well as be aware of your surroundings and what’s happening during your visit. However, you will feel no anxiety and be completely relaxed. Most patients feel that they need to take a nap afterward in order for it to wear off. Like oral sedation, it is important to coordinate with someone who can drive you home after your appointment.

With all of the types above, you will still be conscious and alert during the procedure. Under sleep dentistry, you will be completely asleep. Sleep dentistry is not used as often because it requires general anesthesia. In order to use general anesthesia, you must have the appropriate licenses and certified staff on hand. Because more complications can occur during this form of sedation, it is not advised except under severe cases of anxiety.

Related Sleep Dentistry Videos

More Sleep Dentistry Articles