{"id":614,"date":"2018-09-13T08:10:22","date_gmt":"2018-09-13T15:10:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/?p=614"},"modified":"2025-10-09T10:55:16","modified_gmt":"2025-10-09T17:55:16","slug":"sedation-dentistry-calms-you","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/sedation-dentistry-calms-you\/","title":{"rendered":"How Sedation Dentistry Calms You"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sedation dentistry <\/span><b>helps calm children and adults<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during various procedures. When people delay important checkups and cavity treatment, undiagnosed, minor health problems can potentially turn serious. Once the problem worsens, treatment may become more complicated. Because of the great advances in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lambtonfamilydental.com\/sedation\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sedation dentistry<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, patients do not feel pain while the dentist is fixing a smile.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>How Sedation Dentistry Works<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-616 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A-relaxed-patient.jpg\" alt=\"A relaxed patient at Lambton Family Dental\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A-relaxed-patient.jpg 2000w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A-relaxed-patient-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A-relaxed-patient-768x461.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A-relaxed-patient-1024x614.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sedation dentistry uses medication that allows patients to feel at ease during a dental procedure. Your professional dentist administers that medication and monitors your blood pressure, respiratory rates, and oxygen saturation so you are comfortable and safe. Beforehand, your doctor will disclose any potential side-effects. At that time, patients must disclose any medication (including vitamins and herbal remedies) they are currently taking. Possible complications may arise when sedation is combined with certain types of medication. Although it is also referred to as \u201csleep dentistry,\u201d patients remain conscious, except those under general anaesthesia.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Levels of sedation used include:<\/strong><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Minimal Sedation \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The patient is relaxed but awake.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Moderate Sedation \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patients are conscious, but may not remember much about the procedure.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Deep Sedation \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although patients are on the edge of consciousness, they can still be awakened.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>General Anaesthesia \u2013<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The patient is eased into a sleep state and is unconscious throughout the procedure.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The type of sedation used depends on the treatment (or surgery) scheduled. For instance, your dentist may write a prescription for oral sedation and instructions to take it before you arrive for your appointment, allowing for reduced restlessness and increased relaxation during the procedure. Your doctor may ask you to avoid eating or drinking hours before your dental work. Once the medication kicks in, you will start to feel drowsy and relaxed. You\u2019ll also need to arrange for a ride home (or an escort on public transportation).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-619 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Monitoring-patient\u2019s-vital-signs.jpg\" alt=\"Monitoring patient vital signs at Lambton Family Dental\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Monitoring-patient\u2019s-vital-signs.jpg 2000w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Monitoring-patient\u2019s-vital-signs-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Monitoring-patient\u2019s-vital-signs-768x461.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Monitoring-patient\u2019s-vital-signs-1024x614.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Why should I consider sedation?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phobias are diminished<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Past negative experiences are overcome<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nerve and teeth sensitivity isn\u2019t felt<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anxiety is reduced<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local anaesthesia is rendered unnecessary<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complex procedures can take place in comfort<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gag reflex ceases to be a factor<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sedation dentistry helps patients relax during a root canal, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lambtonfamilydental.com\/dental-implants\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dental implants<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and tooth extraction. It is not usually used for bi-yearly cleanings, routine care, and X-rays, but in some cases, the dentist may recommend sedation for simple dental procedures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-615 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A-relaxed-child-getting-a-filling-e1539612250186.jpg\" alt=\"A-relaxed child getting a filling at Lambton Family Dental\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are <\/span><b>four types of sedation dentistry<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The dentist can also customize the sedation to match your specific needs by combining different approaches.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Inhalation <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 Nitrous oxide (popularly known as \u201claughing gas\u201d) is combined with oxygen. A mask is placed over the nose and the patient inhales the gas. This eases mild to moderate anxious feelings. The amount of sedation administered to the patient is controlled by the dentist, but its effectiveness wears off quickly (compared to the other sedatives). Patients given inhalation sedation may be still aware of their surroundings. The patient experiences a relaxing feeling throughout his\/her body, and is able to return to most normal activities after the procedure.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Oral \u2013<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This is perhaps the most common type of dental sedation given to patients. The amount of dosage administered ranges.\n<p><\/span>Minimal. The dentist recommends you ingest a prescribed pill an hour before the appointment. It allows your body to feel more calm and ready for dental treatment.<\/p>\n<p>Moderate. A larger dosage is given to the patient. Some patients may be groggy and fall asleep during the procedure. However, they can be awakened with a gentle shake. Do not drive to or from the appointment and ask someone to accompany you before, during, and after your visit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>IV \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A sedative is injected into the patient\u2019s vein and works quickly. The dentist can adjust the amount of sedation throughout the patient\u2019s time in the chair. IV sedation is usually used for complex dental work. In some instances, two dentists will be present. One will place the IV, administer the medication, and check the level of sedation, while the other performs the treatment. The patient will have little or no memory of the procedure.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Deep Sedation and General Anaesthesia \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on the strength of medication, deep sedation can either place a patient at the edge of unconsciousness or completely unconscious. With general anaesthetic, the patient is unconscious and is not easily awakened until the effects of the anaesthesia subside or are reversed by another administered medication.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No matter the purpose of your appointment (other than a basic cleaning), local anaesthesia is almost always administered to numb the treatment site and prevent any discomfort during the procedure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-617 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Consulting-before-scheduling-treatment-e1539612453291.jpg\" alt=\"Consulting before scheduling treatment Lambton Family Dental\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><strong>How Safe is Dental Sedation?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sedation dentistry is safe when administered by a licensed and experienced oral health care professional. Patients with severe weight problems or obstructive sleep apnea must consult with their general physician and dentist to determine the best course of action.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Before receiving sedation dentistry, follow these tips:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk to the dentist about your medical history and the medications you are currently taking.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask about the dosage appropriate for your age and health. Inquire if the drug is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Know your dentist\u2019s qualifications and experience with sedation dentistry and the number of procedures he\/she performed.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask your doctor to detail any risks that come with the procedure. Ask questions and express concerns, if you have them.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-623 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Dentist-explaining-the-benefits-and-risks-e1539612368600.jpg\" alt=\"Dentist explaining the benefits and risks at Lambton Family Dental\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Are You a Candidate for Dental Sedation?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your dentist will evaluate your overall health (including physical and mental conditions) before recommending sedation dentistry. There are certain health conditions (e.g. cardiovascular disease, hypertension, lung problems, and diabetes) that require clearance from a physician. Once you receive medical clearance, the dentist can recommend effective dental sedation approaches to help you feel relaxed while they and their team resolve your oral health issues.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dental sedation enables patients to receive the care and repairs they need. It is a useful tool for a comfortable, positive experience. Sedation dentistry also enables the dentist to perform his\/her job faster and more efficiently, while the patient is in a relaxed state.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For <\/span><b>sleep dentistry in Sarnia<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, reach Lambton Family Dental at (519) 344-5747. Our licensed health care professionals have years of experience, and our staff will help put you at ease. Relieve your tooth and gum pain; repair any oral health problems today. Call or schedule a consultation by using our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lambtonfamilydental.com\/contact\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">online form<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sedation dentistry helps calm children and adults during various procedures. When people delay important checkups and cavity treatment, undiagnosed, minor &hellip; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1021,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-614","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tips"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/614","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=614"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/614\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2073,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/614\/revisions\/2073"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1021"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=614"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=614"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lambtonfamilydental.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=614"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}