Common Questions about Sedation Dentistry

Mentioning dental appointments to Atlanta residents is a sure way to see reactions ranging from guilt to raw fear. Some people feel guilty for missing a string of dental appointments because they lack the time and initiative in visiting dentists. Others may feel scared because they just can’t get rid of nauseous or anxious feelings each time they step into a dental office.

If you’re skipping dental appointments because of these emotions, it’s time to look at other options. There’s a procedure called sedation dentistry that might interest you. Sedation dentistry aims to reduce dental phobia or anxiety in patients. This procedure promises a decrease in anxiety for patients who choose to stay away from dental clinics because they aren’t comfortable with dentists or dental equipment.

Depending on the procedure, the dentist may administer a variety of sedatives to the patient. Gaseous sedatives such as nitrous oxide are usually inhaled by patients before intensive checkups and cleaning procedures are performed on the patients’ teeth. Other sedative drugs are required to be swallowed by the patient or injected into the patient’s body. For other important points on sedation dentistry, read the following information.

Will I go to sleep when I’m sedated?

A sedation dentist atlanta may administer a sedative that can put you in a semi-conscious state. The sedation procedure is supposed to make you feel calmer, so you can relax during the dental treatment. Your movements and involuntary reactions are also limited when you’re sedated, so the dentist can complete the procedure quickly and easily.

How much does sedation dentistry cost?

Rates depend on the dental clinic and on other factors like your health insurance plan. A sedation dentist atlanta may charge you depending on the type of sedative he or she administers. The reason behind this is that some patients may feel relaxed enough with more affordable oral sedatives, while others may need an IV-administered sedative that’s more expensive.

Can I immediately resume doing normal activities after the procedure?

A sedation dentist atlanta may advise you to rest after the procedure, as your gums are likely to bleed or swell. Many dentists would also advise you to stay away from driving, because the effects of a sedative, no matter how mild, might take time to wear off.