Many patients experience stress, anxiety, or even fear when considering dental treatment, especially major dental treatment. The good news is that modern dental care has a wonderful alternative in sedation dentistry. So whether you are about to undergo a tooth extraction, root canal, or another extensive procedure, sedation can help you get through your appointment with a bit more comfort and less worry.
If you’re looking for ways to relax during treatment, finding a dentist in SE Calgary with sedation options can be useful! At Glenmore Family Dental, we offer sedation dentistry to ensure our patients feel comfortable during treatment!
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the use of medication to provide patients with calmness and relaxation during important dental treatments. Sedation can be particularly effective for patients with:
- Dental anxiety
- Lengthy or multiple procedures
- Sensitive gag reflex
- Difficulty sitting still for long periods of time
- Desire a more comfortable dental experience
Sedation can be light enough to keep you calm and awake or deep enough that you barely remember anything about the procedure.
What Are the 4 Levels of Sedation?
If you’re wondering what the 4 levels of sedation are. Here is a simple overview of the types:
- Minimal Sedation: You are awake but feeling calm. Minimal sedation is achieved by using nitrous oxide (laughing gas). It is a fast-acting sedation and is suitable for a short, uncomplicated procedure.
- Moderate Sedation: You are conscious; however, you may feel sleepy and will not remember the procedure. Moderate sedation is given in a retail pharmacy as oral medication or by intravenous (IV) sedation. You will still be able to respond to instructions, but far more relaxed with it.
- Deep Sedation: You are unconscious and may not be able to respond to touch or voices. Deep sedation is administered by IV for the most part. The idea of deep sedation is for patients who have significant anxiety or difficult dentistry planned.
- General Anesthesia: This is where you are unconscious and unaware of the procedure. Very few, if any, clinics perform general anesthesia; most of the time it is performed in a hospital.
Your dentist will discuss the most appropriate level based on your individual circumstances, the planned procedure, and your medical history.
What Is Deep Sedation for Dental Procedures?
Deep sedation is a level of conscious sedation where you are almost totally asleep but can still be aroused as needed. It is typically used during longer or more involved dental procedures.
When using deep sedation, the degree of awareness is reduced, but there is none of the following:
- You will not feel pain or anxiety during the procedure
- You may not remember the procedure at all
- It requires diligent monitoring of your breathing and heart rate
- You will need someone to drive you home after the appointment
Deep sedation is a great option for patients who are very anxious with dental care or when they need to have multiple procedures completed in one visit.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is very safe when done by trained dental professionals. Prior to your procedure, your dentist will:
- Review your full medical history
- Discuss any medications you are taking
- Explain what to expect during and after your procedure
Your vital signs will be monitored closely throughout your treatment to provide comfort and safety at all times during your visit.
Why Is Sedation Dentistry a Game Changer?
Sedation dentistry changes the dental care experience. Here are a few reasons why it is a game changer:
- Comfort: You can receive care without discomfort or fear
- Efficiency: Several procedures can be done in one visit
- Less anxiety: Helps patients to overcome long-term dental fears
- Improved oral health: It helps to encourage people to follow through with important treatment
For many patients, sedation dentistry has finally enabled them to obtain the dental care that they need with little or no stress.
Ready for a Relaxing Dental Experience?
If you experience nervousness at dental visits or if you require a major procedure, sedation dentistry may be the solution you are looking for. At Glenmore Family Dental, we deliver safe and comfortable sedation dentistry in SE Calgary with the intent to help every patient feel relaxed and at ease.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and experience how sedation dentistry can change your feelings towards dental care.