Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation can be a scary topic for some people. No one wants to think about the horror stories when sedation did not work correctly, or when a person was harmed during sedation. Whether these stories are real or not, sedation gets a nasty reputation for that exact reason. So, you want to know if sedation dentistry is safe. Keep reading this article to find out the answer.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Patients are usually awake, except for those who are under general anesthesia. According to The Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, 30 percent of the population avoids the dentist due to fear. Unfortunately, fear of the dentist stops many people from getting the dental care that they need. For this reason, sedation dentistry has become a highly effective option. There are different ways to sedate a person for dental purposes. For example, some are sedated by inhaling gas. Others choose oral, an IV, or regular medication.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Even though sedation dentistry is safe when given by an experienced dentist, there are always risks. There are different types of sedation, making it vital that you know your dentist has the proper qualifications to administer the type of sedation you’re given. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, all oral and maxillofacial surgeons are “experienced in airway management, endotracheal intubation, establishing and maintaining intravenous lines, and managing complications and emergencies that may arise during the administration of anesthesia.”

Things to Keep in Mind

Before receiving any type of sedation, you need to make sure a few things happen first. This is especially true if you struggle with a high level of anxiety. Before sedation, the following tips will hopefully put you at ease:

• Make sure your dentist knows your medical history like the back of their hand before they perform any procedure on you. They should make sure you are a good candidate for the particular sedation you will receive and as you about any medications you are currently taking.
• Discuss the dosage amount you will be receiving so you are aware beforehand. You can even verify that the FDA recommends that dosage.
• Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist questions. You can ask anything from how much training have they had to how many sedation procedures have they performed. These questions can give you an idea of their experience level with sedatives.

It’s important that you understand the safety involved in sedation dentistry. While it is generally safe, there can always be risks. Remember, you can reduce the risks in several ways. One, by knowing your doctor’s certifications, and not being afraid to ask questions. Another way is to make sure you are taking the appropriate amount of anesthesia for you. If you are unsure, you can check the amount you and your doctor discuss with the FDA.  And finally, make sure your doctor knows your entire medical history and the types of medications you are taking. Sedation dentistry can be scary to some people, but with these tips and information, it doesn’t have to be.