Sedation dentistry helps people with dental phobia or dental anxiety relax during their appointment to receive the treatment they need for their smile.
During sedation dentistry, you may receive an oral medication to take at your appointment, or you may opt for a heavier level of sedation through an IV to be put into a deep sleep during your procedures [1].
Whether you need a filling or a more involved treatment such as a dental implant placement or veneer restoration, sedation dentistry is typically an option to help you restore your smile without anxiety.
Do you qualify for sedation dentistry, and when is it an option?
For Dental Implants and Restorative Procedures
Although sedation dentistry is not required for dental implant procedures, it is certainly an option. Some patients have anxiety about getting a dental implant placed and would prefer extra support to remain comfortable during their appointment, which can result in greater satisfaction with their procedure [2].
Sedation dentistry is an option for:
- Bone grafting for dental implants
- Dental implant placement
- Dental implant restoration and repair
- Mini dental implants
You may also choose sedation dentistry to help you stay relaxed during other restoration procedures, such as those for dental bridge, veneer, and crown placement or repair.
Sinus Lifts, Gummy Smile Treatment, and Extractions
Sedation dentistry is also an option for procedures such as sinus lifts prior to dental implant placement and gummy smile treatment as well as tooth extractions.
Although you will be completely numb during your procedure, if you have anxiety about experiencing pain, are uncomfortable with people being in your personal space, or have a strong gag reflex, sedation dentistry may be for you [3].
You can also opt for sedation dentistry during emergency procedures, such as when having a broken tooth removed, restoring a knocked-out tooth, or getting an exam when you are experiencing sudden or severe tooth pain.
Full Mouth Reconstruction and Smile Makeovers
People who need a full mouth reconstruction or a smile makeover may be facing numerous procedures and appointments, which can cause stress and anxiety. If you need to fully restore your smile but find the idea of multiple procedures and appointments daunting, sedation dentistry is an option.
In fact, sedation dentistry can even help patients receive multiple treatments in just one appointment, whereas these treatments would normally take several appointments. So if you qualify, sedation is a worthy consideration for full smile makeovers and restorations.
Want to Learn More About Sedation Dentistry?
If you are curious about sedation dentistry for your smile restoration, dental implant placement, or gummy smile treatment, ask your dentist if you would qualify for the type of sedation you are looking for. Sedation dentistry has helped patients just like you to have a worry-free treatment at their dental office.
Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6327823/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35403382/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6318731/
