If the thought of any dental procedure makes your whole body tense with fear, you're not alone. Many people who suffer from dentophobia, or phobia of dental procedures, would rather not undergo any dental treatment at all. Luckily some options will make you feel more comfortable in the process while still helping you achieve a beautiful smile.
Sedation dentistry is a common option for various levels of dental treatment. It can help with something as simple as a dental cleaning to something more serious, such as a tooth extraction or full mouth reconstruction. Because of this, you can go in complete confidence to your preferred dentist at Park 40 to take care of your oral health.
Levels of Sedation Dentistry According to Your Case
- Minimal Sedation: You are awake but relaxed.
- Moderate Sedation: You may have difficulty speaking in this state and may not remember much of the procedure.
- Deep Sedation: You are on the verge of consciousness but may wake up.
- General Anesthesia: You will be completely unconscious for a while.
What You Should Expect From Sedation Dentistry Procedures
During Sedation
Your dentist will put you under sedation through an IV in your arm or hand before starting your dental procedure. The dentist will then introduce sedative medications into your bloodstream, and you will quickly enter a relaxed, semi-awake state.
You will not be completely asleep as you would be if you were undergoing major surgery, but you will be able to respond to your dentist's instructions.
Coming Out of Sedation
Once the procedure is done, your doctor will wake you up from the sedated state, and you will be surprised that it is over. You will have the feeling that you have been at the dentist for minutes, even though you have been there for hours, depending on your case.
Sedation Amnesia
It is common if you have no memory of what happened while you were sedated. This is beneficial if you suffer from anxiety or fear. You won't remember any of the sights and sounds you experienced while in the dental chair, so you'll feel more relaxed the next time you return.
Returning Home After the Procedure
It can take up to 24 hours for the sedatives to wear off. You will not be able to drive home, so it is necessary to have someone drive you home, where you will need to rest. Do not drink alcohol or drive or engage in strenuous activity for 24 hours after the procedure.
At Park 40 We Care About Your Safety And Comfort
If you experience dental anxiety for your regular cleanings or need a more complex procedure, at Park 40, New York’s premier dental implant center, we offer sedation services to help make your experience more comfortable. Contact us to know what is the best method for your dental appointment.