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A Sedation Dentist in Grapevine Might Be Just What the Doctor Ordered

October 2, 2018

Filed under: Uncategorized — tntadmin @ 10:16 pm

dental patient relaxing during sedationA sedation dentist in Grapevine can provide the dental care you need while sparing you from needless discomfort and unease. Modern sedation dentistry uses safe, effective medications to relax the patient and help him or her to rest comfortably throughout the procedure.

How Dental Sedation Works

The purpose of sedation is to induce a state of deep calmness and relaxation. Sometimes a sedated person may sleep through an entire dental procedure, though this is not always the case. After treatment is complete the dentist will use medications to rouse the patient.

Sedation by itself is not used to block pain. Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to prevent any chance of physical discomfort during your treatment. Sedation is used as a supplemental measure to ensure your emotional and psychological well-being during the procedure.

The best way to describe sedation is to think of it as a state of deep, refreshing rest. You’ll experience none of the phobias and fears that make so many people apprehensive about going to the dentist. Because sedation does depress your central nervous system, you may need someone to transport you home after treatment is over.

Types of Dental Sedation

The best known form of sedation dentistry uses nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” to relax the patient. This is a minimal approach to anesthesia in which the patient usually stays awake. Your dentist may use an IV solution filled with liquid tranquilizers instead of nitrous.

Certain dental procedures require a more advanced form of anesthesia then nitrous. You’re already familiar with this type of treatment if you’ve ever undergone major surgery. With this approach you’re deeply asleep throughout the process, often with some form of breathing assistance.

Afterwards you will rest in a post-op area before being released. Because this is a deeper form of sedation you will need the assistance of a friend or family member to return home.

You may feel groggy for two or three days until the anesthesia leaves your system. Don’t be surprised if you sleep a good bit of the time. This is a normal reaction to the medication.

In rare cases, patients may experience a minimal amount of nausea from anesthesia. Usually this is harmless and passes quickly. Follow your dentist’s directions for self-care during the days after your procedure.

Is Dental Sedation Safe?

Yes, it is. Modern sedation methods are light years beyond those that were used in the past. Not only are they more effective, the side effects wear off more quickly, allowing the patient to get back to his or her normal life in a minimal amount of time.

Sedation may not be the best answer for everyone. Let your dentist know ahead of time if you have heart problems or other serious health conditions. In such cases, your dentist may opt for a lighter form of sedation or use another approach entirely.

In today’s world there’s no reason for anyone to suffer needlessly from dental problems. Talk to your dentist in Grapevine about your sedation options during your upcoming procedure. The facts you learn will leave you smiling.

About the Author

Dr. Greg Martin is a third-generation dentist and a graduate of Washington DC’s prestigious Howard University College of Dentistry, where he finished near the top of his class. You can reach his office or by calling (817) 481-1041.

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