A significant number of Canadians do not visit the dentist for regular checkups because they are too fearful or suffer from dental anxiety. Sedation dentistry offers an excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety-free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.
Sedation dentistry is often mistakenly thought to induce sleep. In fact, most sedatives allow the patient to stay awake during the procedure. Sleepiness is a side effect of some medications, but sedation techniques work to calm anxiety throughout the dental visit.
At MacDonald Periodontics IV sedation offers patients the ability to have treatment completed without anxiety. Some sedatives work so effectively that even the smells and details of the procedure cannot be recalled afterwards. Safety and compliance are two important aspects of treatments, so sedation dentistry offers both the individual and the dentist the best alternative.
Whatever the form of sedative, it is essential to be accompanied by a caregiver. Patients undergoing IV sedation must have an adult escort to and from the office. In addition they should not have anything to eat or drink for 6 hours before their scheduled procedure.
Here are some advantages associated with sedation dentistry:
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Anxiety is alleviated.
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Few side effects.
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More can be accomplished during each visit.
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Continuous monitoring of vital signs during treatment
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Procedures seem to take less time.
Amnesic effects of sedatives
What kinds of sedatives are available?
At MacDonald Periodontics IV sedation is offered for all treatment procedures. IV Sedation allows us to customize the dosage required for each individual patient in a safe and effective manner. All patients' vital signs are continuously monitored during treatment. Before administering any sedative, Dr MacDonald will review your full medical history, taking note of any current medications.
IV Sedation
Intravenous sedation is a moderate type of sedation. Patients who have previously experienced IV sedation often report feeling like they slept through the entire procedure. It is administered via direct injection into the bloodstream, which means the effects are immediate. Sometimes patients feel groggy and sleepy when the IV sedatives are withdrawn. This is why it is important to bring a designated driver for the drive home.
If you have questions or concerns about sedation dentistry, please contact our office.