When you are scheduled for oral surgery, it is easy to get nervous. Many patients start thinking about the pain they might feel or are even nervous about the type of sedation they might undergo. In reality, there is nothing to fear. Patient comfort is one of the most important things to your dentist, and of course to you as well. Each sedation option is different, but each one can be used to ensure that you are comfortable during your operation.
Types of Oral Sedation
There are different levels of sedation. Some allow you to stay awake during your surgery. These are perfect for short and simple surgeries. Other types of sedation allow you to be completely asleep during the operation. This gives some patients a higher level of comfort but actually causes others to become more nervous.
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to surgery sedation. Ultimately, what is right for you will be decided between you and your dentist.
-
- Oral sedation
Oral sedation is administered orally via a pill. The effects can be mild to moderate. Depending on how sedated you wish to be, many patients feel relaxed and a little sleepy. Other patients may doze off during the procedure but can be easily awakened with a little prompting.
-
- Inhaled sedation
Inhaled sedation, or more commonly referred to as laughing gas, is an easy way to administer sedation. The effects are extremely fast and are perfect for kids or adults with dental anxiety. The patient inhales a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide which will ease pain and tension.
-
- IV sedation
IV sedation is the fastest form of sedation, and it can be easily controlled as to the levels of sedation the dentist or patient agree upon. Since it is administered directly into your veins, the effects are almost immediate.
If you have any more questions about dental sedation, feel free to give us a call or stop by our office today!