Sedation Dentist

Many dentists use sedation while performing dental procedures. Sedatives are used to make the patient relaxed and anxiety free during the procedure. Many people have fear of the dentist. Patients with dental phobia experience nervousness, anxiety and mental tension while undergoing dental procedures. Using sedatives in such patients will prevent all these conditions and keep the patient calm and relaxed during the procedure. Sedatives are also used to perform complicated procedures such as cosmetic dental procedures.

Not all dentists are qualified to use sedatives. In the United States, only 6% of all dentists are qualified and experienced enough to use sedatives while performing procedures. This is because it takes additional experience to be able to administer sedatives properly. It may be a little difficult for you to locate a sedation dentist in your region. However, you can start by searching online dental databases to locate a dentist near to you.

Sedatives are chemical substances which act directly on the central nervous system of the human body. These induce sleep in the patient. When administered in low quantities, they make the patient calm, relaxed and stress-free. There are different types of sedatives. These are used in different conditions and patients. The right type of sedatives to be used will be determined by the dentist while performing the procedure.

Sedatives are administered in three different ways. These include:

Oral route: These sedatives are available in the form of tablets. These are given to the patient half an hour before the dental procedure. Oral sedatives are a good option if the patient has fear of needles. In such cases, it may be difficult to administer sedatives via the intravenous route.

Intravenous route: These sedatives are administered through the vein. Intravenous sedatives are the most commonly used sedatives. A few decades ago, intravenous sedatives were the only option available to dentists.

Inhalation: Certain sedatives and anesthetics are available in the form of gases. These are administered to the patient using a gas mask. Nitrous oxide is the most popular dental sedatives used today. It doesn't completely relieve pain. However, it reduces anxiety in the patient and so it is very advantageous to the dentist.

Sedatives do not have any serious side effects. However, the patient may experience an uncomfortable feeling for some time after sedatives are administered. This is not a serious side effect and will go away after a few hours.