Many people experience dental anxiety and it can prevent them from getting necessary treatment. Exploring sedation methods could help you to overcome your anxiety. But just how safe is dental sedation? Below we’ll explore several sedation methods and whether they are safe.
What is Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation involves using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are three main types of dental sedation:
- Nitrous oxide: This is a gas that is inhaled through a mask. You remain conscious, but pain and anxiety are greatly reduced.
- Sedative pills: This is a pill that is taken at home before you arrive at the clinic. It will make you relaxed and drowsy, but you will remain conscious.
- IV sedation: This involves having sedative medication administered via an IV drip in your arm. This is a faster-acting and stronger solution – while you will still be conscious, you may not remember the procedure once it wears off.
All of these methods of sedation are provided here at Mint Dental. In fact, we are the only licensed dental clinic to carry out IV dental sedation in Chattanooga, TN. You can read more about these sedation methods here.
Is Dental Sedation Safe?
At The Mint Dental, all sedation procedures are administered by licensed and highly trained dental professionals. We follow strict protocols and use monitoring equipment to track your heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure throughout the procedure.
While some people can experience side effects such as dizziness or nausea, these are generally mild and wear off quickly. At The Mint Dental, every patient undergoes a comprehensive pre-procedure assessment to review medical history, current medications, and overall health. This ensures that sedation is not only effective but also tailored to your individual needs, minimizing any risk.
Who Should Avoid Dental Sedation?
It is recommended that you avoid dental sedation if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have a cardiovascular disease
- You have COPD or sleep apnea
- You have liver or kidney problems
- You are taking antidepressants or antipsychotics
- You are allergic to sedation medication
- You have drank alcohol or taken drugs in the last 24 hours
Being honest about any issues is important for preventing adverse reactions. As much as you may want dental sedation, it is not worth putting your health in danger.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Chattanooga, TN that can carry out sedation, look no further than Mint Dental. Our licensed dentists prioritize patient wellbeing and take a personalized approach to care, helping to find the best suited sedation method for you. Throughout the procedure you will be closely monitored to ensure that there are no adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sedation
Will I be asleep during dental sedation? You will still remain conscious while under sedation. However, you can expect to feel drowsy and may not remember the procedure afterwards. In some ways, it may feel as if you have been to sleep.
Can I drive home after dental sedation? If you opt to use nitrous oxide as a sedative, you will usually be able to drive home after. However, you cannot drive home after oral sedation or IV sedation and will need to arrange for someone to drive you home.
How long does dental sedation last? It depends on the type of dental sedation as to how the effects will last. After a few hours, the effects will usually have worn off, but you may still feel groggy for up to 24 hours.
Is dental sedation covered by insurance? Dental sedation can be covered by insurance, but this is not always the case. It is important to check with your provider beforehand.
Feel Calm and Confident at The Mint Dental
With the right sedation method and expert care from The Mint Dental, you can overcome dental anxiety and get the treatment you need—safely and comfortably. Contact us today to book your appointment.