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How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?
Sedation dentistry uses controlled amounts of sedatives to help patients relax during dental procedures. Dentists use techniques like nitrous oxide sedation, IV sedation, and oral conscious sedation to manage patient’s dental anxiety thus ensuring seamless dental procedures. The type and dosage of sedation used depend on the length and complexity of the treatment. Sedation dentistry is safe for patients of all ages. Experience stress-free dental care with sedation dentistry from the best dentist in Pittsburgh. Schedule today!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to the Dental Sedation Process
Evaluation and Sedation Technique Selection
The process kicks off with a comprehensive evaluation of your dental condition and medical history with your Pittsburgh dentist. Patients with hypertension, COPD, and liver conditions may not qualify for dental sedation. If you qualify, the dentist will select the sedation technique based on age, the dental procedure, and medical history. The dentist will then issue pre-sedation instructions before proceeding to the next.
Sedation Procedure
The dentist will administer sedation as per standard procedure. For example, nitrous oxide involves wearing a gas mask and inhaling laughing gas. For oral conscious sedation, the dentist will ask you to take a sedative pill or syrup 30 minutes before the procedure. For IV sedation, they’ll inject an IV drip into your arm and administer the sedative directly to your bloodstream.
Monitoring Your Vitals and Treatment
The dentist will then proceed with the treatment while keeping a keen eye on your vitals to ensure your safety and comfort. The vitals in question are your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. After treatment, the dentist will instruct you to care for yourself until the sedation wears off.
