What Type of Sedation Is Used for Dental Implants?
Are you considering dental implants but are worried about the discomfort or fear associated with the procedure? You’re not alone. Many individuals share your concerns. However, modern dentistry has made significant strides in ensuring patient comfort, and sedation dentistry is at the forefront of these advancements.
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for people who suffer from missing teeth, failing teeth or chronic dental problems. They are artificial tooth roots, similar in shape to screws. When dental implants are placed in your jawbone, they bond with your natural bone. They become a sturdy base for supporting one or more artificial teeth, called crowns. A connector, known as an abutment, is placed on top of the dental implant to hold and support your crowns. The crowns are custom-made to match your natural teeth and fit your mouth.
Modern dental implants have been used successfully for over 30 years. They are the strongest devices available to support replacement teeth – and even better, they allow these new teeth to feel, look and function naturally.
The Need for Sedation in Dental Implants
The thought of oral surgery may cause anxiety for some patients. This is where sedation dentistry steps in. It uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry,” although that’s not entirely accurate. Patients are usually awake with the exception of those who are under general anesthesia.
The levels of sedation used include: minimal sedation, where you are awake but relaxed; moderate sedation (formerly called “conscious sedation”), where you may not remember much of the procedure; deep sedation, where you are on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened; and general anesthesia, where you are completely unconscious.
Types of Sedation Used for Dental Implants
Sedation options for dental implants typically include local anesthesia, nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas), oral sedation (pills), and IV sedation. The type of sedation used will depend on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s comfort level.
Local anesthesia is a type of anesthetic used to prevent pain in a specific area of your mouth during treatment by blocking the nerves that sense or transmit pain, which numbs mouth tissues. Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is used as a mild sedative. It’s delivered through a nose hood, and is administered throughout the entire procedure. Oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill. A larger dose may be given to produce moderate sedation.
Choosing the Right Sedation for You
Choosing the right type of sedation for your dental implant procedure should be a decision made in consultation with your dentist. Your health history, the estimated length of the procedure, and your comfort level with dental procedures will all be taken into consideration. The goal is to ensure that you are as comfortable and pain-free as possible during your dental implant procedure. Remember, dental implants are a safe and common procedure. With the right sedation, it can be a comfortable experience that leads to a bright and healthy smile.
Get Your Dental Implants in Dallas
If you’re in Dallas, Highland Park, Uptown, Oaklawn, or Turtle Creek and considering dental implants, reach out to us at White Dental Spa. Dr. E-Jan Tung & Dr. Quinn Liu and their experienced team are here to guide you every step of the way. We will make sure your experience is comfortable and your results are excellent. Don’t let fear hold you back from the smile you deserve. Contact us at (214) 484-1064 to request an appointment today!