Sedation
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is a dental procedure in which a patient is given a sedative medication by mouth to induce a state of relaxation and reduce anxiety during dental treatments.
Types of Medications
Common medications used for oral sedation include benzodiazepines - such as diazepam, lorazepam and triazolam. These medications have sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects.
Duration
The duration of the sedative effects varies depending on the type and dosage of the medication. After the dental procedure a patient may remain drowsy for a few hours and it is common for individuals to need someone to accompany them home.
Combination with Local Anesthesia
Oral sedation is often used in combination with local anesthesia (numbing medication) to ensure the patient remains comfortable and pain-free during dental procedures.
Post-Sedation Instructions
Patients are provided with post-sedation instructions, including guidance on activities to avoid, dietary restrictions and the need for a responsible adult to accompany them home.
Benefits
Benefits include reduction of anxiety and fear associated with dental visits, increased comfort during procedures and facilitation of necessary dental treatments for individuals who may otherwise avoid them.
IV Sedation
IV (or intravenous) sedation is a dental procedure in which sedative medications are administered through a vein to induce a state of deep relaxation and reduce anxiety during dental treatments.
Types of Medications
Common medications used for IV sedation include benzodiazepines such as midazola and other sedative agents. The dosage is carefully adjusted based on the patient's individual needs, medical history and type of dental procedure.
Rapid Onset & Adjustability
IV sedation offers a rapid onset of sedation, allowing the dental team to quickly adjust the level of sedation based on the patient's response. This is particularly beneficial for maintaining optimal comfort throughout the procedure.
Post-Sedation Recovery
After the dental procedure is completed, patients are monitored as they recover from the effects of sedation. The recovery period may vary and patients may need assistance to get home.
Benefits
IV sedation offers several benefits including deep relaxation and reduced anxiety during dental procedures, amnesia for the dental experience (which can be beneficial for patients with dental phobia) and facilitation of complex or lengthy dental treatments.
Communication with the Dental Team
Open communication with the dental team is crucial before IV sedation. Patients should provide comprehensive medical histories including details about medications, allergies and any previous adverse reactions to sedation.