Many people suffer from dental fear or anxiety, but that doesn’t have to stop you from seeing your dentist. Sedation dentistry makes it easy and comfortable to get the care you need. Conscious sedation relieves anxiety using sedative drugs. Many types of IV sedation can be used in dentistry. Here are 4 of the most common drugs.
1. Midazolam
The Journal of Dental Anesthesia and Pain Medicine reports that midazolam is derived from benzodiazepines, making it a suitable dental sedation. It reduces anxiety and causes memory loss while having minimal effect on the heart and lungs.
The sedative is injected into a vein and takes effect in about 2-3 minutes. Its effects can last 60 to 120 minutes. The Food and Drug Association supports midazolam for both pediatric and adult patients.
2. Propofol
Propofol is also delivered intravenously and can be used for children and adults. It works more quickly than midazolam, taking effect in 90 to 100 seconds. However, it contains soybean oil, egg lecithin, and glycerol, so it can cause pain when injected.
Patients are monitored closely because Propofol may cause a decrease in blood pressure. It may not be an option for patients with allergies to soybeans or eggs.
3. Ketamine
Ketamine is a derivative of phencyclidine, which is a psychedelic drug. It is effective in reducing pain and has memory loss effects. It rarely affects the lungs or heart. It can take effect within 1 minute after being injected into a vein. One dose only lasts for 5-10 minutes, so it’s recommended for short procedures.
Ketamine isn’t recommended for patients under the age of 16. It shouldn’t be used on patients who experience significant elevations in blood pressure.
4. Dexmedetomidine
Dexmedetomidine is a strong sedative that causes a sleep pattern that’s similar to normal sleep. The medication is delivered continuously throughout the procedure, allowing the dental team to communicate with the patient.
Dexmedetomidine can interfere with normal breathing and heart rate, so low doses are given. The Food and Drug Administration advises against its use for diabetics, patients with high blood pressure, or the elderly.
Your sedation dentist will review your treatment plan and learn more about your situation to determine the safest and most effective sedative for you. You can sit back and relax in the dentist’s chair, thanks to IV dental sedation.
About Dr. Paul Weinstein
Dr. Weinstein earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and pursued continuing education in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He has regularly continued his training in various specialties, like dental sedation. He is a member of the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology and many other professional organizations. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (561) 879-8757.