Do you wonder about the safety of using sedation dentistry in Houston? Are there any side effects? What happens while you’re sedated?
These are all legitimate questions. There are people who outright refuse to use sedation, and it may be for a number of reasons.
They may not like how they feel afterward, they don’t like to use sedatives even in a clinical setting, or they may just not feel like they need it.
However, if you decide to use sedation dentistry in Houston, you can rest easy knowing it is safe.
What Sedation Dentistry Does
The primary reason for using sedation dentistry is to calm and relax a patient while also reducing discomfort.
There are several dental procedures where sedation is completely unnecessary, such as cleanings and sealing teeth. Even in these easy procedures, some patients may still feel anxious, and a low amount of sedation is enough to calm them for a procedure.
When you get sedation, there are a few things that will happen.
- Loss of Anxiety
Oral, gaseous, and IV sedation all help calm and relax a patient, removing any fear or anxiety about the procedure. - Light Sedation
In most cases, only light to moderate sedation is needed. Your Houston dentist will not administer more sedation than is necessary to complete the procedure. It’s almost never enough to make you fall asleep, which is important since the dentist may need to give you instructions during the procedure. - Heavy Sedation
If you are having a more invasive procedure done, such as advanced periodontal disease treatment, a more heavy IV sedation may be needed. This can put you just over the edge into sleeping, but it never takes more than a gentle nudge to awaken you. - Fleeting Memories
Sedation dentistry seems to shrink time. Your dentist works continuously, performing a lot of work, but it may seem like just a few minutes pass between sitting in the chair and going home.
Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry
There can be a few side effects with using sedation dentistry. The sedatives being used are safe and are continually regulated throughout a procedure, so there’s no worry about an overdose.
The sedative agent is also non-addictive, so it won’t create any dependencies for the patient.
However, depending on the sedative used, it could interact with certain medications.
It is very important that you discuss with your Memorial dentist what medications you are taking to avoid any sort of drug conflict.
The primary side effect to using sedation dentistry is feeling tired or otherwise not alert. It is highly recommended you have someone drive you to and from your dental appointment to avoid any problems.
After particularly intense dental procedures, take it easy for the rest of the day and do not cause excess strain on your teeth or gums.
