If your upcoming oral surgery is making you feel anxious or nervous, the idea of using sedation dentistry to stay relaxed during the procedure can be highly appealing. But is it really the right fit for you? Your oral surgeon will need to confirm that you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry before they can administer it. Below is a brief look at why sedation dentistry may not be the best choice for everyone.
What Forms of Sedation Dentistry Are Available?
There are multiple types of sedation dentistry to choose from. One common option is nitrous oxide sedation, which is usually suggested when the patient in question only has minor dental anxiety. Breathing in nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen through a small nasal mask can help you stay in a relaxed, euphoric state during your treatment.
Patients who have severe dental phobia or need specific procedures performed may want to consider IV sedation. This type of sedation takes effect quickly because the medication is delivered straight to the bloodstream. In many cases, IV sedation can put you in such an advanced state of relaxation that you might not even remember what happened during the procedure.
What are Some Signs That You are Not a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
There are several circumstances that can make sedation dentistry a less-than-ideal choice for you:
- Pregnancy: The medication used for sedation dentistry may potentially cause problems for an unborn child. As such, nitrous oxide sedation is not recommended during the first trimester, and it’s typically best not to use IV sedation at all while pregnant.
- Certain Allergies: Some patients may be allergic to the medications used for sedation dentistry. Make sure that your oral surgeon is aware of any allergies that you may suffer from.
- Nasal Congestion: This is specifically an issue for nitrous oxide sedation. If your nose is stuffy, you may not be able to breathe in the sedative.
- Taking Certain Medications: There are a number of medications that should not be mixed with sedation dentistry. Tell your oral surgeon about any prescribed or over-the-counter medications that you are currently using.
- Certain Medical Conditions: Your overall health is often a major factor in determining your candidacy for dental sedation.
Is Sedation Dentistry Worth Pursuing?
It’s important to keep in mind that if you are a viable candidate for sedation dentistry, it can go a long way toward helping you have a more positive experience during your oral surgery. As such, it is absolutely worth checking to see whether sedation dentistry is a good fit for you. Be sure to speak to your oral surgeon; they can help you figure out whether or not you’re a viable sedation dentistry candidate.
About the Practice
Here at South Florida Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we have five experienced oral surgeons who combine their skills and strengths to bring high-quality care to our patients in Jupiter. To help those who are nervous about being treated, we’re proud to offer sedation dentistry options such as nitrous oxide sedation and IV sedation. To schedule a consultation at our office, visit our website or call (561) 743-8311.