If you have a procedure coming up, you might be curious about sedation. Sedation is an important topic because it can help you stay comfortable and still during the procedure. We want to minimize any possible discomfort, and we need you to stay as still as possible to make sure we perform the procedure appropriately. Take a look at some important points regarding sedation below, and reach out to us to schedule an appointment.
What Are the Different Types of Sedation?
There are several different types of sedation that we might use. Some of them include:
- Local Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is not really sedation at all, as you will still be fully conscious; however, for some procedures, we may be able to control your pain with local anesthesia alone. This is a small injection that we deliver at the site of the procedure, numbing that area. Then, we can work without you feeling any discomfort.
- Oral Conscious Sedation: Another type of pain control that we might use is called oral conscious sedation. This type of sedation will keep you awake during the procedure, but you may not have memories of everything that happens. You will feel much more relaxed, and we can ease your anxiety. If you decide to use this type of sedation, you will need to schedule a ride home after the appointment.
- Nitrous Oxide: Nitrous oxide is often called laughing gas. This will cause you to feel a bit giddy. It will help you relax, you will stay awake, and you will have your anxieties taken away. If you think you might have to drive yourself home after the procedure, this could be the best option for you.If none of these are enough for you, you might require general anesthesia. If you think you will require general anesthesia, schedule an appointment with our office to talk to us ahead of time.
Are There Any Risks?
With certain types of sedation, there could be some risks. For example, there are a select few people who develop an allergic reaction to certain types of anesthesia. If you have had sedation in the past, and you have suffered an allergic reaction, be sure to let us know ahead of time. That way, we can take the appropriate precautions and minimize the chances of an allergic reaction happening. We follow all the best practices in our field to minimize the risk of complications.
Visit North Austin Dentistry for All Dental Needs
In the end, these are just a few of the most important points you need to keep in mind if you are concerned about sedation. At North Austin Dentistry, we know that everyone has their personal preferences when it comes to sedation, but we want you to keep you comfortable during the procedure. If you have questions about which sedation is best for your needs, give us a call today! Don’t forget to schedule an appointment for your next cleaning.