Dental sedation may be the key to an easier, better, and more comfortable experience during your treatment if you have dental anxiety or need extensive work done. From laughing gas to deep sedation, there are many ways for administering sedation. But if you’ve never had sedation at the dentist, you might be unsure of its safety. Although feeling sedated during a dental visit may seem risky, dental sedation is generally a safe choice for patients. Before considering sedation dentistry, it’s essential to speak with an experienced and qualified dentist near you

Make sure your dentist is qualified to provide this type of treatment and has the required training and credentials. Discuss your complete medical records and any medications you are taking, including vitamins and supplements, to reduce risk and complications. 

Dental sedation can have an adverse effect on certain medical conditions and medicines. Based on your age and general health, your dentist should be able to advise you on the right dosage for you as well as what will happen if the anesthesia doesn’t work. Each patient responds differently to the same dose. Your specific situation should be taken into account when describing the risks involved, and ensure all of your concerns are addressed.

Types of Sedation

Nitrous gas, oral conscious sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation are the most common types of sedation dentistry near you.

Nitrous oxide

It is often referred to as laughing gas. Nitrous oxide can be breathed in through a mask or a nosepiece, and the soothing effects start to take effect after a few minutes. Throughout your treatment, our dentist in Metrotown will monitor the dosage of sedation you receive and make any necessary adjustments. Your dentist will offer you pure oxygen to help flush the nitrous oxide from your system after your dental treatment is completed. 

Oral conscious sedation

Your dentist will give you sedative pills during this type of sedation about an hour prior to your dental treatment. Pediatric dentistry employs liquid sedation by dentists. Even though oral sedation can make you feel quite sleepy and even cause you to doze off, you will be able to speak with your dentist if required. 

Intravenous (IV) sedation

It offers the highest level of conscious sedation. Your body will be directly injected with this sedative using an IV line.  While conducting the dental work, your dentist monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. At any time, they can change your dosage and, if necessary, switch to reversal medicine. The best candidates for this option are those who are going through lengthy procedures or who have severe dental anxiety.

Risks of Sedation

It’s usually safe to use sedation dentistry. However, depending on your age and any existing medical issues, there may occasionally be risks involved.

Here are some possible risks and complications: 

  • Change in blood pressure and pulse rate.
  • Decreased breathing rate.
  • Severe headache.
  • Lungs are invaded by stomach fluids.
  • Vomiting and dizziness.

 

In most cases, side effects are not severe. They normally disappear soon after the procedure is completed. Many of them can also be avoided by our expert staff by keeping a careful eye on you while you undergo the procedure.

FAQs

  1.  Will I feel anything during my treatment?

You’ll start to feel sleepy and at ease immediately and experience the effects of medication given by your dentist to swallow after 30 to 60 minutes. Your blood pressure may slightly decrease, and your breathing will settle down. Your healthcare provider will keep an eye on you throughout the process to ensure your comfort. You won’t experience any discomfort during your dental procedure due to this treatment option, which can also help you feel relaxed. 

  1.  Is sedation dentistry the same as being unconscious?

You won’t be completely unconscious during deep sedation. Once the procedure concludes and the medications cease to be administered, most patients wake up immediately.

  1.  Is sedation dentistry safe?

No medical expert can state for sure that using anesthesia is completely risk-free. However, it is a tested procedure that is usually secure when carried out by qualified experts. Throughout the process, a qualified dentist will keep an eye on your vital signs and have oxygen and medications on hand to undo the effects of the sedation.

Looking for Sedation Dentistry in Metrotown?

Visit Acu Dental & Orthodontics to learn more about sedation dentistry or other dental treatments to restore your oral health. Our experts are happy to assist you with any concerns you have about your dental care. We provide quality dental care in a comfortable environment to ensure you receive the best care possible. Contact us and schedule your visit today!

(604) 439-7744
604-265-7372