Sedation Dentistry
Mt Laurel, NJ
Sedation Dentistry provided by Dr. Fizza Jaffery
in Mt Laurel, NJ at Union Mill Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center
According to a report published by the American Dental Association, as many as 22% of adults have not visited a dentist in the last 12 months because they were afraid.
Unfortunately, it is this group of patients who often require extensive dental treatment to restore their dental health when they have to visit the dentist when they are in pain. Thus, their fears are realized.
However, modern dentistry offers a range of sedation options so that the experience is pain-free. Although sometimes referred to as sleep dentistry because many patients recall little of their experience when they have been sedated, patients are usually awake (except those who have a general anesthetic).
At Union Mill Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we are empathetic to your dental needs and can recommend a range of options that will best suit your treatment. From simple teeth cleaning to extensive procedures such as dental implants, there is no need to avoid dental treatment because you are fearful.
Why Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can help to minimize your dental anxiety so that you can cope with being nervous about your dental procedure. Even for patients who are not worried about receiving dental treatment, sedation can be a good option for lengthy or uncomfortable procedures.
Learn more about your sedative options and what each level of sedation provides.
Levels of Sedation
Different levels of sedation are used in dentistry to cater to the diverse needs, preferences, and medical conditions of each patient. Dentists use various sedation options to ensure that dental procedures are as comfortable, safe, and stress-free as possible for each individual.
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Different levels of sedation can be used in dental procedures due to varying factors such as: patient anxiety levels, the complexity of the procedure, and medical conditions the patient may have.
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Some patients have underlying medical conditions that may affect their ability to tolerate certain levels of sedation. Dr. Jaffery must consider a patient's medical history and overall health when selecting the appropriate sedation method.
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Pediatric patients may require different sedation approaches than adults.
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Certain dental procedures, such as wisdom tooth removal or root canals can be uncomfortable or painful without adequate sedation. Deeper levels of sedation may be used in these cases to minimize pain and discomfort. |
Minimal Sedation
In minimal sedation the patient remains fully awake and conscious. This allows anxiety and apprehension to be reduced. Coordination and cognitive function are not significantly affected. Minimal sedation is often achieved using medications like nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) or a mild oral sedative.
Moderate Sedation
Moderate sedation is also called conscious sedation. The patient is still conscious and able to respond to verbal commands. Memory of the procedure may be impaired. Breathing and vital signs are maintained without assistance. Moderate sedation is usually administered through intravenous (IV) medications or oral sedatives.
Deep Sedation
During deep sedation the patient is at a deeper level of sedation but can still be aroused with stimulation. Breathing may require assistance. It is administered through IV medications, often by an anesthesiologist.
General Anesthesia
The patient is unconscious and unresponsive during the procedure when given general anesthesia. It requires complete control of the patient's airway and breathing and is usually administered by an anesthesiologist. General anesthesia is commonly used in complex surgeries or for patients who cannot tolerate conscious sedation.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide sedation is also known as laughing gas. It provides minimal to moderate sedation. The patient inhales nitrous oxide and oxygen through a mask. It's often used in dental procedures to reduce anxiety and pain.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking oral medications before the procedure. These medications can range from mild sedatives to stronger anti-anxiety drugs. Patients may remain conscious but feel more relaxed.
What Is IV Sedation Dentistry?
IV sedation dentistry is a dental procedure in which sedative medications are administered through an intravenous line to induce moderate to deep sedation in the patient. This form of sedation is often used for patients who have severe dental anxiety or require extensive dental work.
It requires a licensed and trained healthcare provider, such as an anesthesiologist, to administer the sedative drugs intravenously. This allows for precise control over the level of sedation throughout the procedure.
With IV sedation, the patient is typically in a state of moderate sedation. They may remain conscious but are deeply relaxed, often with limited memory of the procedure. IV sedation can also be combined with local anesthesia to ensure that the patient is comfortable and pain-free during dental treatments.
During IV sedation, the patient's vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, are closely monitored to ensure safety.
After the procedure, patients may require some time to recover from the effects of the sedation. It's essential to have a responsible adult accompany the patient and assist with transportation home.
IV sedation dentistry is a valuable option for individuals who have dental phobias, need extensive dental work, or prefer to have a more comfortable and anxiety-free experience during their dental procedures. It's crucial to discuss your concerns and medical history with us when you come to our Mt Laurel office to determine if IV sedation is a suitable choice for your specific needs.
Is IV Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Sedation dentistry is extremely safe, and our team of dental experts are highly trained and qualified to administer any of the techniques that we decide upon. We only perform techniques that we both agree on beforehand, and we always make sure that you are fully informed about any choice that you are making. We urge you to discuss any of the options with Dr. Jaffery.
Sedation Dentistry Is Available at Union Mill Oral Surgery in Mount Laurel!
Don't put off visiting the dentist because you are anxious about dental treatment. With the range of sedation options at Union Mill Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center we can help you relax so you can get the care you need without the stress. If you want to discuss your sedation options before your procedure, contact us at (856) 437-5225. We can schedule a consultation appointment to go through your sedation options for the procedure you are needing. |
