Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry Helps People Cope

As comfortable as we make our facility at Avero Dental in Kitchener, Ontario, some need extra help coping with dental procedures. They may be anxious or have other issues that make getting a dental exam or lengthy procedure difficult. That makes our sedation dentistry incredibly important. It allows everyone to feel comfortable and access quality dental services without panic or fear.

Who Sedation Dentistry Helps

Sedation dentistry is designed to help those who would find it challenging to complete a dental procedure, including exams. This population includes:

Sedation Dentistry Explained

Sedation dentistry is designed to help people relax without putting them completely out. There are several variations of sedation therapy to suit individual needs.

Oral medication

We have a pill the patient can take on their way to their dental appointment to help them relax. The medication keeps you conscious, but relaxed. It will take time for this to wear off, so you may be groggy for the rest of the day.

Nitrous Oxide or Laughing Gas

This is often used for children or those with special needs because it is simple to use and wears off when the patient starts breathing room air. It puts you in a drowsy state, but you can still answer questions. It is safe for children and older adults.

IV Medication

IV sedation is stronger than other forms, but it is useful in longer procedures where the person needs to remain still. It puts you in a twilight sleep state where you can still respond to questions. It takes longer to wear off than other options.

General Anaesthesia

General anesthesia is the least used at dental offices but is sometimes necessary for those with severe anxiety or special needs where no other option is useful. This is the only sedation option where the person is completely asleep.

Things to Know About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is safe for most people, but your dentist will review your medical history before recommending it to ensure it is safe. The patient will need someone to drive them home afterward because they will be groggy. It’s best if someone can stay with them for a few hours after the procedure as the sedation medication wears off to ensure there are no negative reactions to the medication or the procedure. Side effects are generally minor, with some reporting nausea or vomiting. Your Avero Dental oral health care professional will give you a list of instructions to heed before and after you receive sedation. These will help alleviate possible side effects. Patients undergoing sedation will have no memory of the dental procedure. This is a great help to those with anxiety issues. You don’t need to be formally diagnosed with anxiety to receive sedation dentistry. A conversation with your Avero dentist and staff can help you decide what is needed.

How Sedation Can Help

Sedation helps those who otherwise would avoid a dental office. It allows people who need an exam or procedure to get one without stress. The benefit of not remembering the previous procedure is a bonus, as the patient doesn’t relive the stress, making the next one easier.
Ask our staff about sedation dentistry. We are happy to answer any questions and schedule a consultation. Call or book online today!

FAQs

Who is sedation dentistry for?

Patients who feel anxious about dental treatment, have a strong gag reflex, find it hard to sit for long appointments, or are having more involved surgery.

Will I be unconscious?

Not with the sedation options we commonly use. You stay responsive but deeply relaxed, and most patients remember little of the appointment.

Is sedation safe?

Yes, when properly assessed and monitored. We review your medical history and medications first, and monitor you throughout.

Can I drive myself home?

Not after sedation. You will need someone to drive you and, ideally, stay with you for a few hours afterward.