Sometimes people wonder whether dental sedation is safe. The answer is yes, it’s very safe. As with any drug, however, there are risks associated with it. A perfectly healthy person can have a poor reaction to any drug, no matter how benign. However, when administered properly and to an age-appropriate patient, dental sedation is extremely safe. The following article discusses dental sedation in more detail:
Sedation options range from general sedation, to IV sedation, oral conscious sedation, nitrous oxide, and a variety of other modalities that are less commonly used. Sedation is often used in dentistry to help fearful patients complete procedures in a relaxed state without anxiety. It can also make surgery easier to perform because patients are much less likely to move at an inopportune moment, which can make the procedure more challenging.
One of the most common techniques utilized by dentists all over the country is oral conscious sedation. With oral conscious sedation, patients just take a safe little pill one hour before their appointment. This pill helps them to relax and eliminates their dental fear. Most patients snooze through the appointment, feel no discomfort, and have no memory of the procedures.
Many of these fearful patients begin chewing without pain and smiling with confidence for the first time in years. These benefits are often life-changing for people who have procrastinated getting their mouths healthy or enhancing their smiles. Sedation dentistry is even beneficial for patients who aren’t fearful, but would like to be more comfortable during lengthy dental procedures.
Of course, there are inherent risks with the use of any drug, so a careful consideration of one’s age and medical history is essential before utilizing any of these sedation techniques. Additionally, it is important for the dental team to discuss these issues thoroughly so that patients understand any potential drawbacks. However, when sedation is appropriate for a patient and it is administered properly, it is extremely safe.
Source: http://www.valpolife.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4495
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