Sedation Dentistry That Uses an IV
When it comes to getting the dental care that you need when it is needed most, it's important that you meet with a skilled cosmetic dentistry specialist as soon as possible. By doing this, you can have major dental health issues taken care of while they are still relatively minor in nature.
This can be a major hurdle for some patients for a number of reasons, though. Sometimes it's related to severe dental anxiety, which can make regular trips to the dentist a source of great trepidation and stress. In other cases, the problem is related to a medical condition that affects movement, posture, of the ability to remain still. We'd like to consider something that may be helpful in these cases: sedation dentistry.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to various techniques that are out there which can greatly enhance overall dental care experience. These sedation techniques aren't to be confused with general anesthetic. Rather, sedation techniques put patients in a relaxed state so that they are still conscious but feel no worry, fear, or discomfort while the dental treatment takes place.
The Best Candidates for Sedation Dentistry
The best candidates for sedation dentistry are people who experience any of the following:
- Dental phobia
- Panic attacks over dental visits
- Parkinson's disease
- Cerebral palsy
- Bad gag reflex
One particularly effective option for dental sedation is IV sedation.
How IV Sedation Works
IV sedation dentistry involves the use of sedation medications that are administered intravenously. There is a measured and consistant drip of medication from the IV to ensure a safe, controlled dose of the sedation medication.
What to Expect from the IV Sedation Process
During the visit, a member of the dental care team will carefully and gently place a needle into the patient's arm to allow direct flow of the medication into the patient's system. The patient's vitals and condition will be carefully monitored throughout the duration of the dental treatment.
Since patients will be groggy and tired after dental treatment due to the sedation medication, the patient will need to arrange for transportation with a loved one or relative to and from the practice. This is simply to ensure the safety of the patient after the process is completed.
Other Options for Addressing Dental Anxiety and Other Issues
There are other options out there for effective dental sedation that can be discussed and considered as needed. These other options include the use of prescription oral medications (taken by the patient before visiting) and nitrous oxide (administered on-site). Ultimately, dental sedation is just one tool to consider for effective patient care.
We work our hardest to ensure that each patient receives excellent treatment and that they feel at ease while in the office. This goes a long way toward improving overall patient experience and ensuring as little worry and stress during treatment as possible.
Learn More About Dental Care Treatment
If you would like more information about sedation dentistry and your many other options out there for dentistry that is free from anxiety and stress, be sure to contact our Brooklyn Heights cosmetic dentistry center today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible dental health and wellness.
