When Is Sedation Dentistry Recommended?

Your Ticket To A Stress-Free Dental Appointment

Dental visits can be stressful for many people. The sound of drills, the sight of needles, and the fear of pain often keep patients from getting the care they need. That’s where sedation dentistry becomes important. Dr. Thomas Kauffman, a skilled downtown Atlanta, GA, dentist, offers sedation dentistry options to help patients feel calm and comfortable during their treatments. 

Explore our sedation options and schedule your consultation with Dr. Kauffman in Atlanta by calling (404) 524-1981 today. 

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s sometimes called “sleep dentistry,” although that’s not entirely accurate. Most patients remain awake during their treatment, except those under general anesthesia.

There are different levels of sedation:

• Minimal sedation: You’re awake but relaxed.
• Moderate sedation: You might slur your words and forget much of the procedure.
• Deep sedation: You’re on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.
• General anesthesia: You’re completely unconscious.

Dr. Kauffman will help you decide which level of sedation is best for your needs, treatment, and health.

Common Reasons for Choosing Sedation Dentistry

Dental Anxiety or Phobia

Many people experience severe anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist. For some, dental anxiety is so intense that it prevents them from seeking necessary care. Sedation dentistry can help these patients relax and get the treatment they need without overwhelming stress or panic.

Extensive Dental Work

If you need a long or complex procedure, sedation can make the experience more comfortable. It’s helpful for treatments that require you to keep your mouth open for extended periods or involve multiple steps.

Sensitive Gag Reflex

Some people have a very sensitive gag reflex that makes dental work challenging. Sedation can help suppress this reflex, allowing the dentist to work more effectively.

Low Pain Threshold

If you’re particularly sensitive to pain, sedation can help you stay comfortable during procedures that might otherwise be too uncomfortable.

Difficulty Sitting Still

For patients who have trouble sitting still for long periods, such as those with ADHD or certain physical conditions, sedation can help them remain calm and steady during treatment.

Special Needs

Patients with special needs, including those with intellectual disabilities or sensory processing disorders, may benefit from sedation to help them cope with the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and sensations of dental treatment.

Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry can be helpful for many people, including:

• Adults with dental anxiety or phobia
• Children who are afraid of the dentist or have trouble sitting still
• Patients with special needs
• Those undergoing lengthy or complex dental procedures, such as dental implants
• People with sensitive gag reflexes
• Individuals with physical conditions that make it hard to sit in a dental chair for long periods

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide

Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a mask placed over your nose. It helps you relax quickly, and its effects wear off soon after removing the mask. You can often drive yourself home after treatment with nitrous oxide.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed pill shortly before your appointment. The medication will make you drowsy, but you’ll still be awake. You’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.

IV Sedation

Intravenous sedation delivers the sedative directly into your bloodstream through a vein. This method allows the dentist to adjust the level of sedation as needed during the procedure. You’ll be deeply relaxed and may not remember much of the treatment.

General Anesthesia

Used for the most complex procedures or for patients who can’t use other forms of sedation, general anesthesia renders you completely unconscious. It’s administered in a hospital or surgical center and requires a longer recovery.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

When administered by a trained professional like Dr. Kauffman, sedation dentistry is generally very safe. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks. These risks are minimal for most people, but it’s important to discuss your full medical history with Dr. Kauffman before deciding on sedation.

Certain factors may increase your risk, including:

• Obesity
• Sleep apnea
• Certain medications
• Pregnancy
• Age (very young or elderly patients may be at higher risk)

Dr. Kauffman will carefully evaluate your health history and current condition to determine if sedation is safe for you.

Experience Anxiety-Free Dental Appointments With Dr. Kauffman

Sedation dentistry can be a game-changer for many patients who might otherwise avoid necessary dental care. Dr. Thomas Kauffman in downtown Atlanta, GA, offers various sedation options to help make your dental experience as comfortable as possible. 

If you’ve been putting off dental work due to anxiety or other concerns, consider discussing sedation options with Dr. Kauffman. Call (404) 524-1981 to schedule an appointment at our downtown Atlanta dental office.