Sedation and Its Benefits in the Dental Industry

Sedation dentistry means the application of certain pharmacological agents to ease the tension of a patient during a dental procedure. It is a helpful method to relax a nervous patient so that the dentist can work effectively on him or her. The technique is normally used by dentists for an extensive dental session. It is not uncommon for people to have a phobia for dental procedures especially surgeries. Sedation dentistry is a blessing for such people.

Some people confuse sedation with putting patients to sleep or rendering them unconscious. This is however not true. Patients are supposed to be in a “sleep like state”, oblivious to the pains of the procedure. They are however able to respond verbally as well as physically to the cues of the surgical team.

Sedation procedures

The drugs prescribed for sedation reduce the pain for a short term period. The drugs or sedatives used during the session effectively act upon the central nervous system and numb the sensations of the patient around the oral region.

Though it is the gentle caring attitude of the team that would help in the decrease of the patient's fears, many dental care centers nowadays provide conscious sedation that ensures a more comfortable experience. The procedure often involves the administration of oral sedatives such as Valium (diazepam) and Halcion (triazolam). These drugs result in the elimination of anxiety among the patients. Apart from these medications, the use of nitrous oxide has been appreciated by dentists. It is administered in small amounts through inhalation and brings complete relaxation. Other methods include general anesthesia and intravenous sedation.

There maybe a few minor side effects upon the use of sedatives. These could be

1.A decrease in the salivary flow due to the strong reaction of the sedatives.

2.Post operation discomfort due to the release of chemicals like adrenaline to the brain as a result of fear and anxiety.

3.A lingering amnesic effect after the surgery due to the effect of medications.

It is important to find a dentist who is skilled in administering a sedative. If these chemicals are not administered properly, they may harm the patient. A qualified person is vital to address the special needs of elderly and physically or mentally disabled.

The use of medications in this field has encouraged even people who have memories of painful sessions with dentist to have their teeth shown.