When a patient is scared to visit the dentist, they typically react in one of two ways: they delay seeking the care they need, or they ask to be sedated during the procedure. While Sedation Dentistry in Indianapolis IN eases dental fear and makes it simpler for the doctor to do his or her job, it’s important to separate facts and fiction.
There’s Just One Type of Sedation
Many patients think there’s only one type of sedation dentistry: being unconscious. However, there are multiple methods:
- Oral sedation
- Nitrous oxide
- IV sedation
Many times, dentists give patients nitrous oxide during basic procedures, simply to help them relax. With oral sedation, the patient takes a sedative before the procedure. IV sedation isn’t as common, but it’s an option for when patients’ fear or procedures warrant it.
Sedation Equals Sleep
Because it’s often called “twilight” or “sleep” dentistry, many patients think they will go to sleep with sedation. They’ll actually be awake, though they may not remember much about the procedure. Each sedation type affects everyone differently, but none of the above types produces unconsciousness or makes a patient go to sleep.
It’s Just for Those Afraid to Go to the Dentist
Some patients are simply terrified to go to the dentist, and the fright can come from a variety of sources. However, these fears may keep a patient from getting the care they need. Sedation dentistry is good for complex, long procedures, as well as anyone with significant anxiety.
Sedation is Right for Everyone
While some think sedation isn’t safe, others think anyone is a candidate. These myths are opposite, and they cannot both be true; in fact, they’re both false. While dental sedation is safe for most patients, there are some circumstances where it’s not appropriate, such as:
- When a patient is pregnant
- In the presence of other medical issues
- When patients have a high tolerance for the sedative
- When procedures are lengthy or complex
Because there’s more than one type of sedation, it is possible that one method might work where another will not.
In Conclusion
Sedation dentistry in Indianapolis IN is useful for those undergoing painful, complex, and long dental procedures, and it’s also good for those with dental fear. The misconceptions surrounding this type of dentistry are quite confusing and they may make people reconsider the treatment. Talk to a dentist today or click here to find out whether sedation is an option.
