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The Basics of Sleep Dentistry
Posted on 10/19/2020 by Metropolitan Dental Specialty Group
Sleep dentistry, also known as sedation dentistry, is a common method of treatment used when performing different dental procedures. Since it began, a lot of dentists use it on their patients, who prefer it to other customary methods. Though it is popular, a lot of people still do not clearly understand how it works. To comprehend this procedure, we shall expound on the different levels of sedation that are used in sleep dentistry.
Minimal Sedation
During this sedation, the patient is usually awake but relaxed. This is a common level of sedation offered by most dental offices that offer sedation.
Moderate Sedation
This is sedation that can lead to slurred conversation and the loss of memory.
Deep Sedation
In this sedation, the patient is usually at the brink of cognizance but still awake.
General Anesthesia
In this, you will be unconscious during the whole procedure. You will also not recall what happened during the dental treatment. Our dentists have different kinds of sedation that they use during this type of procedure. They include:
IV Moderate Sedation
The sedative drug is usually applied through a vein, causing the patient to fall into a deep sleep. It gives the dentists enough time to work. The sedation level can be adjusted at any time without interfering with the whole procedure's success.
Oral Sedation
This is used during minor dental procedures. We use one or two pills of drugs like Halcion, which make the patient feel drowsy. You will, however, stay awake. The more complex a dental procedure is, the larger the dosage.
Inhaled Nitrous Oxide Sedation
This version of sedation involves the inhalation of nitrous oxide (laughing gas), which is usually combined with oxygen. A special mask is then placed over your nose, giving you the drug that helps keep patients relaxed during the procedure. Our dentists work without difficulty and control the sedation levels by increasing or decreasing the inhaled gas amounts. The effects do not last long. Most patients can even drive themselves home after the procedure.
Deep Sedation
This is more a powerful sedation. Once administered, it will make you fully or partly unconscious. Our dentists will give your body plenty of time before they wake you up. You can also get special medications to reverse the effects.
Sleep dentistry is very helpful during many types of dental treatments. Contact us for more information.
Dental Blog | Metropolitan Dental Specialty Group We are a premier dental practice in Silver Spring, MD & the surrounding D.C. area, offering the best in restorative & cosmetic dentistry. Visit our Dental Blog! Metropolitan Dental Specialty Group, 8380 Colesville Rd #750, Silver Spring, MD 20910 | (301) 585-0400 | metdentgroup.com | 10/3/2024 | Associated Words: dental implants Silver Spring MD |
Sleep dentistry, also known as sedation dentistry, is a common method of treatment used when performing different dental procedures. Since it began, a lot of dentists use it on their patients, who prefer it to other customary methods. Though it is popular, a lot of people still do not clearly understand how it works. To comprehend this procedure, we shall expound on the different levels of sedation that are used in sleep dentistry.