Sedation dentistry is a safe way of relieving anxiety before your appointment. In your relaxed and comfortable state, your dentist can accomplish more during your appointment—even if you’re not nervous about your visit. Although some people consider sedating themselves before a dental appointment, you should not take the risk. Consider three reasons to leave sedation in the hands of your trained doctor.
1. Your Sedation Dentist Knows the Right Level
When you receive sedation dentistry, it is administered based on several factors, including:
- Level of your anxiety
- Dental procedure you are receiving
- Your medical history
- Your current medications
If you under- or over-administer your own method of sedation, it might be inadequate for the procedure or your anxiety—or you might be too relaxed to respond to the dentist’s questions or instructions. And the method you choose can be dangerous for your health during a dental procedure. Sedation dentists are trained to determine the right type and amount of medication for each patient.
2. Certain Medications Can Interfere
When you’re sedated by one of our doctors before a dental appointment, you will receive either nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation in pill form. Your vital signs will be monitored for your safety. If you already take prescription anti-anxiety medication or any other type of medication, in advance of your procedure, let your dentist know the type and dosage. Although you will be monitored during your dental procedure, certain medications can interfere with the medication your dentist would prescribe. In the rare event of an emergency, your dentist needs to know what medications you have taken.
3. Concerns with DIY Sedation
Smoking – Smoking in advance of dental procedures is not recommended. Whether you smoke tobacco, marijuana, or some other substance to help you relax, smoking can prevent proper healing and put you at risk for infection.
Alcohol – It can act as a blood thinner and inhibit your blood clotting system. Alcohol also depresses the central nervous system and can cause rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Prescribed sedatives – Your dentist will review your medical history and prescriptions and if needed, consult with your physician(s). It is vital that you fully disclose your prescriptions and dosage. It will help your dentist determine if sedation dentistry is right for you and which type of medication should be used.
When you allow your doctor to administer sedation dentistry, it provides a safe, effective outcome. If you have questions about this treatment, schedule a consultation with one of our doctors. Call us at 404-994-4509, or request an appointment online.