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What Is Dental Sedation, and Is It Right for You?

Klement Family DentalDental sedation involves using medications to eliminate pain and help a patient relax during what could be a painful dental procedure. Dentists use several types of medication for sedation dentistry, but they all have the effect of enabling a person to undergo complex procedures without feeling worried, anxious or uncomfortable.

Here is information about common sedation methods and when they might be a good choice.

Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is even more relaxing than nitrous oxide. While many patients remain awake after this form of sedation, some drift off to sleep while the treatment is taking place. Oral sedation is given in pill or liquid form and is sometimes combined with nitrous oxide to provide a comfortable treatment session. If your dentist recommends this form of sedation, be sure you have a friend or family member who can drive you home after treatment.

IV Sedation
As the name implies, IV sedation involves injecting a sedative directly into the bloodstream. Patients will remain awake during treatment but don’t feel any pain or discomfort. If your dentist recommends this form of sedation, be sure you have a friend or family member who can drive you home after treatment. Additionally, you will need some time to recover at home from the effects of the sedative.

Is Dental Sedation Right for You?
It is important to note that you not all forms of sedation dentistry are suitable for all patients. If you are interested in undergoing sedation before a treatment, see your doctor to make sure that it is a safe option for you personally. Your doctor will consider your health and current medications and can offer advice regarding the best form of sedation for your upcoming dental visit. Additionally, those who want IV sedation or oral sedation will need to make sure the dentist handling the work has the specialized training and license needed to offer these forms of treatment.

If you want anxiety-free care from a licensed professional who can offer the dental sedation option that best suits your needs, contact Klement Family Dental. Our family-run practice in St. Petersburg has been in business for the last 39 years and has experienced dentists who are licensed to provide any type of sedation dentistry you may need. Furthermore, our office has a track record of offering friendly, high-quality services to patients of all ages.