Recently there have been a lot of advertisements on the radio, in magazines, on billboards and even on the television about sedation dentistry. But what is it? And more importantly, is it safe?
Sedation dentistry is used to provide a relaxing and anxiety-free experience for certain people receiving dental treatment. It enables individuals too afraid to go to the dentist to receive the dental care they need while avoiding the excess apprehension known as dental phobia.
According to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS), 30 percent of the population avoids the dentist due to fear. This "dental phobia" prevents people from receiving necessary routine dental care, potentially compromising the over-all health and functionality of their mouth and smile.
Sedation is a process used to establish a relaxed, easy and calm state through the use of sedatives. Sedative drugs (tranquilizers, depressants, anti-anxiety medications, nitrous oxide, etc.) can be administered in a variety of ways. Nitrous oxide or better known as "laughing gas" has been the predominate way to help patients have a relaxing visit and is available to patients in most dental offices. However, today more and more dentists are turning to oral sedation (taking medications prior to your dental visit) to help those with dental anxiety receive the dental care they need.
Though there have been reported cases of deaths from oral sedation, many dentists are seeking additional training to provide this service to their patients and it is now becoming a major advertising campaign by many offices to increase the number of patients they treat. However, it is highly recommended that the use of oral sedation should be reserved for those individuals with severe anxiety concerning dental treatment.
When used properly by a qualified, trained dental provider and under constant monitoring, oral sedation can be a safe and effective way to receive dental care for those with dental anxiety. I recommend that if you are seeking this type of service, review the credentials of your dental provider. Check with the state dental board to make sure they are qualified and have received the proper training and licensure to provide this service. Ask questions about sedation dentistry and make sure all of your questions are answered before receiving this service.
Many patients may ask if their insurance covers this procedure. Currently most insurance companies do not pay for sedation dentistry.
Our office has always been concerned about the comfort and care our patients receive. Our goal is to provide an atmosphere of comfort in a safe environment while receiving the best dental care available.
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