Visiting the dentist can cause anxiety and increase stress for some patients, often causing them to avoid necessary treatment. At Steven C. Hewett D.D.S. in Champions Gate, FL, we aim to ensure that every patient has the best experience at our office, from the most routine treatments to the more advanced dental procedures. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry to alleviate stress and anxiety and improve your dental treatment experience.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for All Ages and Health Conditions?
Most patients who want to relax and experience an anxiety-free dental appointment qualify for sedation dentistry. One of the many benefits of using sedation to enhance the dental experience is that it’s safe for patients of all ages. However, some patients may not qualify for this treatment enhancement for safety reasons.
Pregnant Women
Some sedation medications are not recommended for pregnant women, especially during the first trimester. The effects of the sedation medication on an unborn baby are not worth the risk involved with undergoing treatment while pregnant. Most dental professionals agree that the second trimester is the safest time for minimal sedation if needed. However, each patient’s eligibility may vary and requires a careful and detailed plan to avoid any risk to them or their baby.
Patients With Underlying Medical Conditions
Some patients may not qualify for sedation medications due to underlying medical conditions or allergies. Patients allergic to anything in the sedation medications won’t qualify. Patients with respiratory diseases, chronic bronchitis, and other medical conditions that cause compromised lungs are at a higher risk of complications during sedation dentistry and, therefore, usually do not qualify.
Patients of Certain Ages
Older adults with underlying medical conditions may not qualify for sedation dentistry, as they are at an increased risk of complications due to their age and health. Most children can safely undergo treatment with sedation medication to enhance the experience; eligibility will depend on their current health, age, and other factors.
Our Process
One of the benefits of undergoing dental treatments at our office is that we evaluate potential candidates for sedation dentistry on a case-by-case basis to ensure the safest experience. To confirm your eligibility, we’ll first learn more about your medical history, current health, and any underlying conditions or allergies before moving forward to ensure the safest experience.
Safety and compliance are of primary importance in determining the right sedative for each patient, so when you visit our office, you can rest assured that we will work with you to choose the best treatment option. When we meet with you, we will provide all the details about this process so that you know what to expect and answer any of your questions.
Customized Treatments
We offer different forms of sedation to meet the needs of patients undergoing various dental treatments. Most sedatives are available in an oral form, which allows for ease of administration without discomfort or needles. Many patients who undergo minimal sedation dentistry don’t even remember the smells or details of their treatment once it’s over.
Creating a Relaxing Environment
In addition to offering sedation medications for patients undergoing dental treatments, we’ve designed our office to create the most relaxing environment. We provide special, relaxing music played through headphones that patients can wear during the treatment process.
We also offer soft blankets, warm towels, and massage chairs for all dental treatments. By combining our relaxing environment with the right sedative, we’ll help you feel confident about moving forward with your dental treatment anxiety-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Should I Prepare for My Treatment?
Before your appointment, we’ll provide you with some specific instructions on how to prepare for your treatment. It’s important that you disclose any prescription medications you’re taking before the treatment so we can advise you to temporarily discontinue certain ones if needed.
If you do smoke or drink alcohol, be sure to abstain from them well before your procedure. It’s also important to drink plenty of water to ensure you’re well-hydrated before undergoing treatment. Once you arrive, we will take care of the rest.
Is There Any Downtime?
Patients undergoing sedation dentistry must have a responsible adult available to drive them to and from their appointments. This adult can stay at the office or leave during the procedure and return when it’s over if desired. We also have a patient liaison who can arrange any necessary hotel accommodations and provide you with more information about a licensed nursing care company if needed.
The sedation effects will wear off within the first few hours after treatment, depending on the medication used. You should plan to rest during those first few hours until you feel like your normal self again.
What Are the Benefits?
Sedation dentistry provides relief for patients with dental anxiety. It has many advantages that make it an effective option for individuals of all ages who qualify for treatment. Sedation medications alleviate dental anxiety and have minimal side effects. They also allow the dentist to accomplish more work during each visit, reducing the need for multiple visits to the office.
No needles are involved in the treatment process, there’s no pain or discomfort, and procedures are quicker due to increased patient relaxation and compliance. The treatment process is also perfectly safe, so you can rest assured that it will relieve your anxiety and promote your comfort, but will do so safely.
Am I a Good Candidate?
If you’re in good health and suffer from dental anxiety, you may be a good candidate for sedation medication during dental treatment to enhance the overall experience and promote your comfort. Dental work shouldn’t have to cause any fear and anxiety, which is why this treatment enhancement is so effective. The best way to determine your eligibility for sedation medication is to schedule a consultation at our office so we can confirm your eligibility.
Experience an Anxiety-Free Dental Treatment
Sedation dentistry can make all the difference in relieving dental anxiety and ensuring the best possible dental treatment experience. If you want to learn more about our services and see if you qualify for sedation medication during your next treatment, we can schedule an initial consultation to give you more details and determine whether this option is right for you. Contact Steven C. Hewett, D.D.S., in Champions Gate, FL, to learn more.
