Utilizing sedation services before a dental procedure can be helpful for you to stay calm, collected, and comfortable as you aim to improve your dental health. Sedation dentistry in Wilson lets you face the challenge of getting rid of your dental problems to make your life easier.
Are you worried about the effects of sedation on your body? We have you covered! Here is where we will educate you about the benefits of sedation dentistry and what you can do to ease its side effects on your body.
What Are Sedatives?
Sedatives are drugs used to make you feel relaxed during your dental treatments. These medications slow down brain activity and temporarily stop your system from fully functioning to ensure the success of a healthcare procedure.
Sedation dentistry is a treatment you can try when you experience dental fear and anxiety, to the point that you are avoiding your dental appointments, which can destroy your optimal oral health.
How Do They Work in a Dental Procedure?
There are four levels of sedation that you can try on, depending on your body’s capacity and the severity of your anxiety. Remember to have yourself physically and mentally checked before choosing the right level of sedation.
The most common ones are the minimal and moderate levels – conscious but very relaxed. Midazolam, propofol, ketamine, and dexmedetomidine are the sedatives used in conscious sedation approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
On the other hand, the higher levels of sedation, which are deep sedation and general anesthesia, induce the likelihood of falling asleep and eventually making you completely unconscious. These levels of sedation are ideal when you undergo complex dental procedures.
Sedatives can be administered in different ways. You can inhale nitrous oxide alongside oxygen through a breathing mask placed on your nose for light sedation. You can also take sedatives orally with recommended dosages.
If you want to have an immediate effect on your body, IV sedation can be done by injecting sedatives directly into your veins, having that instant effect you need.
For the best results, it is recommended that you fast for about six to eight hours to avoid accidents, such as choking and vomiting, while your body’s system is slowed down temporarily by sedatives.
What to Do While Experiencing the Sedative’s Effects
The effects of sedatives may depend on the level of sedation you have undergone and the dosage you have taken.
You can feel the effect of some methods subside fairly quickly, which makes you able to go home right after the dental procedure. You might experience headaches, nausea, drowsiness, and numbness in the affected area during this period.
Remember to have ample rest and be careful when eating and drinking while you feel the sedative’s effects to ensure a faster recovery. Avoid lifting heavy objects or doing strenuous work as well.
It is best to have someone with you for company while recovering from the dental procedure. If you experience heavy breathing, severe dizziness, or a faster heartbeat within 24 hours of sedative administration, seek medical help immediately.
On the other hand, the effects of deep sedation can take up to 24 hours before being completely worn off your system. General anesthesia can last up to eight hours; hence, you will likely stay in the treatment facility for a while. However, this type of sedation is often not necessary for many dental treatments.
Your dentist will continuously monitor your vital signs for both sedation levels. You might need extra oxygen as you deeply rest. Your memory and reflex are also expected to be affected by the sedatives.
While waiting for the anesthesia and sedatives to wear off completely, take your time to rest and recover safely. Your dentist will also tell you to stop smoking and drinking alcohol temporarily.
Looking for Excellent Sedation Dentistry in Wilson?
Tryon Family Dentistry has dental experts trained in administering sedatives before dental procedures. With this, we provide you and your family with the optimal level of care, comfort, and safety during dental procedures as we treat families just like our own.
Remember to share this article with your family and friends who need a better understanding of sedation dentistry and how it can help us confidently undergo oral care. If you ever have any questions regarding sedation, our procedures, or your oral health, our team is ready to answer them. We believe that the most informed patients are the most comfortable patients, as they know exactly what to expect.
Reach out to us to know more about sedation dentistry or to schedule your next appointment.
