Sedation Dentistry
Dental Anxiety – a Surprisingly Common Problem
If the thought of having to go to the dentist makes you uneasy, you are not alone. It is estimated that 30 to 40 million Americans suffer from some form of dental anxiety. This condition usually involves fear of one or more of the following things traditionally associated with dental visits:
- Pain
- Needles
- Embarrassment over condition of teeth
- Sights, sounds, and smells of the dentist’s office
- Having a panic attack or losing control due to anxiety while in the dentist’s chair
People with moderate degrees of dental anxiety may simply become nervous when they arrive at the dentist’s office for their appointment. However, individuals who suffer from dental phobia, the more serious form of this condition, may be so distressed at the thought of going to the dentist that they might not go at all, even when they are in need of treatment. If they do resolve to go, they may be unable to sleep the night before their appointment, or they may become sick while in the waiting room of their dentist’s office.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Dr. Edward Liu offers sedation dentistry to help his patients overcome their anxiety and obtain the quality dental care they need. Sedation dentistry may be a suitable treatment option for you if you:
- Have a severe gag reflex
- Have to undergo extensive treatment
- Need help relaxing for a dental procedure
- Have an intense fear of dentists or the sensations associated with the dentist’s office and/or dental procedures
- Would prefer to be asleep during your procedure rather than aware of what is going on
- Have specific phobias (e.g., of pain, needles, tooth extraction) that can’t be overcome even by the knowledge that you will have sufficient anesthetic preparation
- Are strongly influenced by your fears, even if you believe they are irrational
- Suffer from a mental health disorder and believe that you would be aided by sedation
Sedation dentistry can also be useful if you are having multiple treatments performed in a single visit, such as the placement of dental implants,porcelain veneers, or tooth-colored fillings, and other services.
What is Sedation and Anesthesia?
During dental and oral surgical procedures local anesthesia (Novocaine) is administered to block pain sensations. However, the anxiety that some people have can be controlled by administering sedative drugs, such as Valium type medications. A sedated patient may remember the procedures, but will be more relaxed. Additional medications such as agents similar to valium are sometimes used to cause anesthesia, which places the patient more deeply asleep.
How is the Medication Administered?
The sedative and anesthetic medications are typically given intravenously (IV). Since the effects are so rapid by this means of administration, Dr. Liu can precisely give the correct amounts of the medications to make you relaxed and comfortable. Also, if more medications are needed during the procedure, the IV allows easy administration of additional medications.
How am I Monitored During the Procedure?
Depending on the depth of the sedation and anesthetic being used, as well as your own medical conditions, various monitors are used. These vary from automatic blood pressure cuffs, to the use of pulse oximeters which through a light sensor measure the oxygen concentration in your blood. Sometimes an EKG and Capnographer may be used as well.
Dr. Liu along with at least one trained member of the staff will always be with you and closely observing you throughout your treatment.
Is Anesthesia Safe?
The use of sedation and anesthesia in dentistry has a commendable record of safety. This is due to the advanced training Dr. Liu has and his commitment to your overall health. It is important to advise your doctor of all medications that you take as well as any changes in your health since your last visit.
