As we get older suddenly we realised many things we didn't appreciate about being young - being fit, having smooth skin and having all your own teeth. As our loose teeth (and bridges) struggle to deal with chewier food we start eating bland mush and, there is no easy way to say this, OLD PEOPLE FOOD. I'm determined not to let that happen to me and I'm doing everything I can to keep my own teeth as long as possible, and when that's not possible to get the best possible teeth replacement. If you are like me and want to keep on eating whatever you want, I think you'll like my site. It's all about dental health and teeth replacement & maintenance.
Keeping your teeth young
Do You Suffer from Dental Phobia? Conscious Sedation Could be the Solution
Mabel Hicks
Most dental procedures involve the use of syringes and other sharp tools, and this does not settle in well with some people. Dental phobia and dental anxiety can discourage one from visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and treatment. It could be due to fear or previous traumatizing dental experiences. People with dental phobia have a high risk of tooth and gum disease and caries. One of the effective solutions for people who feel anxious and nervous when visiting a dentist is choosing conscious sedation.
What is conscious sedation?
Also known as sedation dentistry, conscious sedation is the administration of medication meant to relax the brain and body muscles and keep the patient just below the level of consciousness. During conscious sedation, the patient is partially conscious, able to breathe on their own, and even answer questions. However, they experience no pain and remember very little about the entire process. Conscious sedation is efficient as it helps the dentist to perform procedures faster as compared to when the patient is fully awake.
What are the types of conscious sedation available?
There are three types of conscious sedation that you can choose depending on the one that makes you feel most comfortable. They are inhalation sedation, IV sedation, and oral sedation.
• Inhalation sedation
Inhalation sedation involves inhaling nitrous oxide, also known as the laughing gas through a mask that is placed around the mouth. The gas acts quickly to relax the brain and muscles, causing you to experience no pain during the dental procedure. You will also be able to breathe normally, through the nose. Once the process is complete, you will not experience any side-effects from the gas.
• Oral sedation
In this case, the medication is administered orally in the form of a pill. Depending on the type of drug administered, you may be required to take two pills at specified time intervals before the procedure. The pill creates a drowsy effect, allowing you to relax throughout the entire process.
• IV sedation
The sedation medication is injected into the bloodstream using an IV. In this method, you may have partial or full memory loss of the entire procedure. If you are afraid of needles, this method may not be ideal for you since the initial injection will be given while you are fully conscious. You can opt for inhalation or oral sedation.
It is essential that you don't drive immediately after a dental procedure that involved sedation since you will be a little light headed. If possible, have someone accompany you to the dentist.
Conscious sedation can be a suitable solution to patients who experience anxiety and phobia when visiting a dentist. Before choosing oral sedation, consider finding a dentist that you feel comfortable and relaxed around as this can help ease your nerves during the dental procedures.
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