Imagine going to the dentist and not remembering anything about the procedure. This is possible thanks to Sedation Dentistry in Broken Arrow OK. By sedating patients, dentists can perform more complex, innovative procedures. There are many types of sedation used.
Gas Sedation
Almost everyone has heard of laughing gas. This is perhaps the most well-known and requested type of Sedation Dentistry in Broken Arrow OK. This gas is inhaled through a mask, and it works to calm patients during many procedures, including cavity fillings and dental cleanings.
Laughing gas is clinically known as nitrous oxide. It’s known for making patients giggle uncontrollably, although others fall asleep. When used by a medical professional, this gas is both safe and effective. Patients feel relaxed for a short period, and the effects wear off very quickly.
Oral Sedation
If a patient is undergoing a more complex procedure, such as root canal, the doctor may choose an oral sedation medication. One of the most commonly prescribed medications is Halcion. This medication is often used to treat insomnia, but when used as a sedative, it makes patients extremely drowsy.
Halcion is taken about an hour before the procedure. Since the medication stays in the system for a longer time, the patient needs a ride to and from their appointment. Some patients experience short-term memory loss after taking Halcion and don’t remember anything about their dental appointment.
IV Sedation
Patients who require extensive dental work may opt for IV sedation. This is commonly used during wisdom tooth extraction, implant placement, and other types of oral surgery. A highly effective sedation medication is administered directly into the patient’s vein using a central line and catheter.
After IV sedation is administered, patients fall asleep. However, they are easily awakened with a gentle nudge once the treatment is complete. Since the patient is fully asleep during the entire procedure, they will have no memory of the event.
Sedation makes it easier than ever to complete a wide range of dental procedures. The type of sedation used depends on the complexity of the treatment. Visit Tulsakidsdental.com to learn about different procedures that often require some form of sedation.
