5 Things You Should Know About Sedation Dentistry

Are you afraid of the dentist’s chair? Does the thought of going to your dentist give you the jitters? You are not alone! 

According to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, 10% to 20% of adults have high levels of dental anxiety. The condition prevents them from seeking dental help even when they need it most. 

That’s where sedation dentistry comes in. 

At Silver Summit Dental in Herriman, Utah, Dr. Hung Pham specializes in sedation dentistry and can help you feel calm and relaxed while receiving dental treatment. 

Keep reading to find the answers to the 5 most common questions about sedation dentistry.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation or sleep dentistry uses sedatives to keep patients calm and pain-free while undergoing a dental care treatment or procedure.

When Is Sedation Dentistry Helpful?

Sedation dentistry is helpful when you have a high level of dental anxiety or when you need extensive dental work done. 

Here are a few scenarios when sedation dentistry is necessary:

• You have a low threshold for pain.
• You have a gag reflex.
• You have sensitive teeth.
• You can’t sit still in the dentist’s chair.
• You have to get a lengthy procedure or several dental procedures done.

What Are the Different Types of Sedation?

There are three types of sedation used in dentistry:

Mild sedation uses small amounts of nitrous oxide or laughing gas to keep you awake during the procedure. Although awake, you won’t feel any sensation around the sedated area.

Moderate sedation involves using oral medication or an IV drip to induce sedation. You will be awake in this case too, but your senses will be numb.

Deep sedation uses general anesthetics to put you out until the procedure is complete.

How Are Sedatives Administered?

Sedatives can be administered:

• Orally - by taking a pill 
• By inhalation - you inhale a substance like nitrous oxide or laughing gas
• Intramuscularly - by injection 
• Intravenously - you are sedated via IV 

What Are the Advantages of Sedation Dentistry?

Some of the main advantages of sedation dentistry are:

• It minimizes pain and discomfort during a dental procedure.
• Our dentist can carry out the required work better and faster when you are under the influence of the sedative.
• It reduces your gag reflex.
• It relieves your dental anxiety.

Contact us at Silver Summit Dental to know more about sedation dentistry and its benefits. Call us at (801) 542-0998, or visit our office at 5734 13400 S, Herriman, UT, 84096, between Monday to Friday for a consultation.