Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney

Charlotte Cosmetic Dentist Explains Sedation Dentistry

Jun 18, 2012 @ 03:19 AM — by Dr. Pinnix
Tagged with: Ballantyne Blakeney Charlotte Charlotte Dentists Dental Anxiety

 

Too many people put off going to the dentist out of fear. Sedation dentistry can help patients with a fear of needles, drills, and dental pain to feel more relaxed during their procedure. This safe, proven method may help those who avoid the dentist to get the care for their teeth they need.

Most sedation dentistry procedures consist of either drug, nitrous oxide, or a combination of the two while some specialists are trained to provide IV sedation and general anesthesia , such as Dr. Pinnix and Dr. Betancourt of Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney. The drugs given are mild sedative medications the patient takes before the appointment for relaxation. Because these drugs can slow reaction times, the patient cannot drive to or from the appointment. Some patients may also receive nitrous oxide with the sedative medications to enhance the reduction in anxiety and to provide a small amount of pain relief.

During the procedure, the patient is not "knocked out" or completely asleep; however, if the patient or procedure require it, general anesthesia can be implemented as some dentists in Charlotte have practiced. During the next day, the events of the day before may not be remembered because some sedative medications may produce mild, temporary amnesia, but some see this as a benefit because it means that they do not remember the dental procedure.

Dentists in Charlotte, like those at our Blakeney dental office, will need to know about other medications the patient is taking to avoid adverse side effects from combining the sedatives with other drugs. Patients will also be monitored during the dental procedure to ensure that their vital signs are normal. Sedation dentistry is safer than using a general anesthesia, and adverse reactions are rare.

Anyone interested in sedation dentistry is encouraged to phone the Blakeney dental office to make an appointment to discuss the matter with a dentist.

If you have any questions or would like more information about easing your dental fears with sedation dentistry, please feel free to contact ourCharlotte dentist office at 704-543-1102 or by using our convenient online appointment request form.