Fear of the dentist is a common situation that affects many people. Luckily, you can work with your dentist to overcome your fear by using sedation dentistry. But how does sedation dentistry work? Can it help your dental anxiety? Find out with Dr. Nidhi Sikka at Sikka Dental in San Jose, CA.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a way for dentists to help patients cope with anxiety related to dental visits and procedures. Many events or experiences can trigger this anxiety, keeping patients from seeking out the preventive and necessary care they require for their smiles. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help the patient relax both mind and body during their dental visit. Sedation dentistry comes in various strengths depending on the patient, the complexity of their procedure, and the level of their dental anxiety.
Am I a candidate for sedation dentistry?
A good candidate for sedation dentistry is in good health and able to undergo the sedation process. In addition to helping patients relax, sedation dentistry allows several procedures to be completed in one visit. Sedation dentistry can also help those with jaw weakness or pain, people with a severe gag reflex, and other physical limitations. Dentists recommend against sedation dentistry if the patient has a heart condition, is taking certain medications, has medical allergies, or suffers from certain respiratory conditions.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry has several different levels and strengths, beginning with a local anesthetic. This numbs the work area of the mouth. From there, sedation begins conservatively with mild sedation or “laughing gas.” Moderate sedation will keep the patient conscious, but they will probably not remember much of their procedure. Deep sedation will cause the patient to go fully to sleep and undergo their procedure while unconscious.
For more information on sedation dentistry, please contact Dr. Nidhi Sikka at Sikka Dental in San Jose, CA. Call 408-259-1280 to schedule your appointment with your dentist today!
