Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedative medications to help patients relax during dental procedures.

There are three levels of sedation:

• Mild sedation: The patient is awake but relaxed. The patient may normally respond to verbal commands. Patients may not remember much about their appointment.
• Moderate sedation: The patient is awake and drowsy. The patient may slur their words. Patients may not remember much about their appointment.
• Deep sedation: The patient is asleep and unresponsive. The patient may stop breathing. Patients may not remember much about their appointment.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

There are three main types of sedation dentistry. They include the following:

• Oral sedation

Oral sedation is a type of conscious sedation where patients take an oral pill prior to the appointment. Patients must have someone drive them to and from the appointment. Oral sedation relaxes patients, but they are still conscious. Oral sedation is a moderate form of sedation dentistry.

• Inhalation sedation

Inhalation sedation, also known as laughing gas, is a type of conscious sedation where patients breathe in nitrous oxide through a comfortably fitting nasal mask. Patients remain awake but in a relaxed mood. Inhaled sedation is one of the mildest forms of sedation, and the effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly.

• IV sedation

IV sedation, also known as twilight anesthesia, is a type of conscious sedation where patients take medication through an IV. Patients are unconscious for the duration of the procedure. IV sedation is one of the strongest forms of sedation dentistry.

Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry allows patients to undergo dental treatment in a calm and relaxed state. Although sedation dentistry isn't a required part of every procedure, it can help patients feel more comfortable.

Sedation dentistry is ideal for people who have dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or very sensitive teeth. Besides, those who can't get numb easily, those who can't sit still in the dental chair for a long period for dental procedures, and those who fear the sound of dental drills can also benefit from sedation dentistry.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Yes. Sedation dentistry is safe. Before any sedation dentistry treatment, patients take a short health questionnaire, and we go over their medical history. This allows us to address any concerns they may have. Besides, after administering dental sedation, the patient will constantly be under your dental professional's observation. 

To find out more about the dental services offered at One and Truly Dental, call (516)-759-0086 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 70 Glen St, #240 Glen Cove, NY, 11542.