Sedation dentistry has emerged as a remarkably valuable and practical solution for patients who experience anxiety, or even fear, related to dental visits. With so many safe and effective options available, those who’d rather be anywhere in the world than seated in their dentist’s chair can now comfortably make it through these visits and receive the important care their smiles need! That said, while beneficial for many, sedation dentistry isn’t always a good fit, and your dentist will need to confirm that you’re a good candidate before administering it. Keep reading below to learn more about a few reasons that might exclude patients from being eligible for sedation dentistry.
What Exactly Is Sedation Dentistry?
To put it simply, sedation dentistry involves treatments designed to assist with dental anxiety, which is a condition that roughly 10% – 20% of the population suffers from. The primary goal is not to induce sleep or knock a patient out, but rather, to help them fully relax during dental procedures. This approach is also particularly useful for those who have difficulty sitting still, have sensitive gag reflexes, or have another condition that might make dental treatment difficult.
There are various forms of sedation dentistry, including common options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral conscious sedation, as well as IV sedation, which is generally reserved for severe dental phobia or specific procedures.
What Might Exclude Someone from Receiving Sedation Dentistry?
Although it’s considered safe for most patients, there are still some circumstances that can make sedation dentistry less than ideal, including things like:
- Pregnancy – Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid unnecessary medications to lower the risk of problems to the developing fetus, including dental sedation.
- Certain Allergies – Some patients might have allergies to specific sedatives used in dentistry, including benzodiazepines. Sometimes alternatives are available, but in any case, share any allergies you have with your dentist if you’re considering sedation dentistry.
- Certain Medications – There are some medications out there that shouldn’t be mixed with sedation dentistry. Be sure to inform your dentist about any and all medications you’re on, both prescribed and over-the-counter.
- Nasal Congestion – Believe it or not, a stuffy nose could prove problematic for patients in need of laughing gas, since it’s inhaled through the nose. Being unable to inhale properly means the gas cannot get into your system as effectively.
- Specific Medical Conditions – If you suffer from chronic bronchitis, respiratory disease, or even sleep apnea, these conditions may be factors when considering your eligibility for sedation dentistry.
- Alcohol Consumption – It’s also worth noting that if you’re going in for a procedure involving dental sedation, don’t consume alcohol beforehand, as it could cause potential complications.
While sedation dentistry has proven to be a valuable tool in alleviating dental anxiety, it’s important to remember that it’s not a suitable solution for everyone. Your dentist will need to carefully assess your medical history and individual needs beforehand; that said, it’s certain to lead to a positive experience in the dental chair!
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Pitarra has served the dental needs of patients and families in Corpus Christi and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, as well as sedation dentistry for patients who suffer from dental-related anxiety. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’d like to get in touch with the office to set up an appointment, please reach out online or call today for more information.