Dentists have different anesthesia and sedation techniques they can use to help their patients feel comfortable and have a pain-free experience during their procedure. The textbook Advanced Training in Anaesthesia outlines some dental treatments during which these techniques are often used:
These treatments are all provided so that, in the long term, a person doesn't suffer from discomfort, infection or other problems in their mouth.
To ensure you don't feel any pain during your dental work, your dentist or specialist has a number of methods that can help you relax and feel comfortable:
Local Anesthesia
As described by the American Dental Association (ADA), your dentist may use local anesthesia to numb your mouth. This technique works by blocking the nerves that send pain and sensory signals to your brain. Your dentist might use a topical anesthetic in a cream or gel form to first numb the surface area before injecting a local anesthetic. Often, injectable anesthetics are used when filling cavities, treating gum disease or preparing teeth for crowns.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is commonly used to reduce anxiety during dental treatment. This is administered to the patient through a small nasal mask, according to the British Columbia Dental Association. Patients can expect to feel relaxed, but they will remain conscious through their procedure.
Oral Sedation
To help with anxiety during a dental procedure, your dentist can also offer you sedative medication in the form of a pill, notes the ADA.
Intravenous Sedation
Another common method of anxiety management at the dentist's office is intravenous sedation. It involves a dentist directly injecting a sedative drug into a vein, causing a deeper form of sedation, explains the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The patient may not be aware of what is going on, and the dentist may keep the patient in the chair longer to monitor their recovery as they wake up. In these cases, patients should bring a friend or family member to escort them home as the effects may take time to fully wear off.
General Anesthesia
This method involves the patient being asleep for the entire procedure, according to the AAP. Specially trained professionals will administer the medications and monitor the patient throughout the entire procedure.
Being able to support a family member, whether they be a child or adult, during visits to the dentist is very important. A review in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dentistry shares the following methods to help alleviate dental anxiety:
What's most important is to not let fear of going to the dentist prevent you or your loved one from having necessary dental work. All of these methods can help you, your child or your family member visit the dentist without fear and maintain a healthy smile.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
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