Sedation Dentistry: Relaxation Dentistry in Tomball TX

Sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry is a method that utilizes medication to induce relaxation in patients during dental procedures. While sedation dentistry Tomball TX is commonly referred to as “sleep dentistry,” this term is not entirely accurate. In most cases, patients remain awake, except for those who are under general anesthesia.

There are different levels of sedation used in dentistry:

1. Minimal sedation: In this state, patients are awake but feel relaxed.
2. Moderate sedation (previously known as “conscious sedation”): Patients may experience slurred speech and have limited memory of the procedure.
3. Deep sedation: Patients are at the brink of consciousness but can still be awakened.
4. General anesthesia: Patients are completely unconscious.

Different types of sedation

Various types of sedation are employed in dentistry, including:

1. Inhaled minimal sedation: By breathing in nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” combined with oxygen through a mask placed over the nose, patients can experience relaxation. The dentist has control over the level of sedation, and the effects of the gas wear off quickly. This is the only form of sedation where patients may be able to drive themselves home after the procedure.
2. Oral sedation: Depending on the dosage administered, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, patients take a pill.

Belonging to the same drug family as Valium, a pill is taken approximately one hour prior to the procedure. This medication induces drowsiness, although you will remain awake. In some cases, a higher dose may be administered to achieve moderate sedation. This form of anesthesia is commonly associated with sedation dentistry. There are individuals who may become sufficiently groggy from moderate oral sedation to actually fall asleep during the procedure. However, they can usually be awakened with a gentle shake if needed.

3. Alternatively, IV moderate sedation involves the administration of the sedative drug through a vein, allowing it to take effect more rapidly. This method enables the dentist to continuously adjust the level of sedation.
4. Deep sedation and general anesthesia are options where medications are given to induce a state of near unconsciousness or complete unconsciousness, leading to a deep sleep during the procedure. Under general anesthesia, it is difficult to awaken until the effects of the anesthesia naturally subside or are counteracted with medication.

Regardless of the type of sedation received, it is typical to require a local anesthetic at the specific site where the dentist is working in the mouth. This numbing medication helps alleviate any potential discomfort caused by the procedure of sedation dentistry Tomball TX.