SEDATION DENTISTRY
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Synergy Periodontics and Implants is pleased to offer three types of sedation options for the comfort of our patients. Our sedation options are: inhaled sedation (laughing gas), oral sedation (medication taken before procedures) and IV sedation (intravenous medication). To determine if you are a candidate for sedation, we will first take a thorough medical health history screening.
Sedation is usually appropriate for patients who have the following criteria:
All of our periodontal procedures are done with a local anesthetic. The local anesthetic will wear off slowly after your procedure providing additional pain management. Synergy Periodontics and Implants will partner with you to create a personalized care plan that will optimize your comfort during dental procedures.
Tips from Dr. Pitman
TYPES OF SEDATION
Sedation is used routinely within our practice and is safe and effective to help patients remain comfortable and relaxed during periodontal and implant procedures. All of our doctors have advanced training in sedation dentistry. They hold current certifications for Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). For your safety, our entire team at Synergy Periodontics and Implants regularly undergoes rigorous emergency training.
MODERATE SEDATION
Moderate sedation, also known as twilight sedation, is the safest method of sedation. The sedation medication/s are administered through a vein in your arm or hand. It is used for patients who are having surgical procedures or procedures that require an increased amount of chair-time. It is especially beneficial for those with any degree of dental anxiety or fear.
The goal of IV sedation is to make sure the patient is completely comfortable, relaxed and free of stress. Twilight sedation makes you feel sleepy and you will not remember the procedure once it is over; however, you are not unconscious.
With this form of sedation, you cannot eat or drink for 6 hours before your dental procedure and Synergy Periodontics and Implants will provide specific details during your pre-op consultation. You will also need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you afterwards.
INHALED SEDATION
Inhaled sedation, also known as laughing gas, is a colorless, odorless mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen that is inhaled through the nose. This form of sedation is most commonly used for dental hygiene procedures and is not intended to put you to sleep, but rather relax you and calm any anxieties you may have about your procedure.
Inhaled sedation can be used during routine dental cleanings, deep cleanings and other procedures as deemed appropriate by our Doctors. Inhaled sedation is a safe and effective method of helping patients relax during dental procedures.
A benefit of inhaled sedation is that it rapidly wears off as soon as it is removed, and you will be able to drive yourself home. There are a few medical conditions that make nitrous oxide use contraindicated. Your Doctor will review your medical history in detail before offering this sedation option.
ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION
Oral conscious sedation includes taking a prescribed oral medication to help you relax prior to a periodontal or implant procedure. Oral sedatives usually make you feel drowsy, relaxed and dull the senses. You may not remember the details of the procedure. Since every body processes oral medications differently, the degree of sedation is less predictable with this method and our Doctors may suggest IV sedation instead. Synergy Periodontics and Implants requires that you have a responsible adult drive you to and from your appointment.