Sedation dentistry has become a lot more popular these days. With the increasing number of people who are afraid or fearful of getting dental treatments and procedures, it is not surprising why many patients want to take sedatives.
But, which type of sedation process is more suitable for you? Which one should you choose?
Generally, there are two types: oral and IV sedation. This post will help you determine the pros and cons for each, assisting you to learn which one is better for you.
About Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is the most convenient type of all. It mainly involves the use of sedative drugs in the form of pills.
There are different sedative pills available on the market. But, the most common of all are diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and triazolam (Halcion).
This is ideal for patients who have mild to moderate levels of dental anxiety. Once taken, they will not fall asleep during the procedure or treatment. While awake and aware, they will feel relaxed throughout the whole process.
Pros and Advantages
- Effective For Simple Dental Procedures
If you are to undergo quick dental treatments, like cleaning, cavities, or root canals, oral sedatives are great because of their effectiveness. They are very convenient, too, making them ideal for such procedures.
- Provides Deep Physical and Psychological Relaxation
Another advantage of sedative drugs is that they provide relaxation to the patient. While it may not cause you to fall asleep, it eliminates anxiety and fears. Accordingly, it helps diminish the overall fear altogether in the long run.
- It Is Affordable
Sedative drugs are very affordable, making them a popular and convenient choice among individuals. Unlike IV sedation, you do not need to shell out an immense amount of cash.
Cons and Drawbacks
- Not Readily Reversible
One of the disadvantages of oral sedation is its irreversible process. Once taken the sedative drug, you will need to wait for it to wear off, the same way you do for the drug to kick in.
- Takes Time To Kick In
Aside from being irreversible, sedative drugs also take time to kick in. This is why patients who take oral sedation need to do it an hour or more before the actual dental procedure or treatment.
About IV Sedation
IV sedation, as the name states, is administered directly into the vein of the patient. Instead of receiving the sedative orally, it will be done intravenously.
The administering does not involve any pain. It immediately causes the patient to be semi-conscious, wherein they are “asleep” yet still aware enough to respond and communicate with the dentist during the procedure or treatment.
This is perfect for patients who have severe levels of dental anxiety. It is also best for procedures and treatments that take too much time to complete, and are complex.
Pros and Advantages
- Quick Onset of Sedative Effect
IV sedation takes effect immediately after the dentist administers it. This is because the sedative directly goes into the veins, causing them to react fast. Dentists give them to patients just a few minutes before the actual procedure.
- Moderate To Deep Level of Sedation
Another advantage of IV sedation is that it is much stronger than oral sedation. This is why it is ideal for patients who will undergo complex and long dental procedures.
- High Degree of Effectiveness
Considering that it directly hits the bloodstream, it takes effect immediately. Therefore, it has a much higher degree of effectiveness.
- It Is Reversible
Unlike oral sedation, this type is reversible. This means that there are available medications and processes to cancel out the effects of the sedatives. Once administered or taken, they take effect instantaneously.
- Safest Form of Sedation
Among all the advantages, the safety and security aspect of this sedation process places on top of all. The reason being is that IV sedation is the safest form of all.
Once dentists administered the sedatives intravenously, they monitor the patients with automated monitoring devices, like electrocardiographs.
Cons and Drawbacks
- Expensive Than Oral Sedation
One of the most apparent drawbacks of IV sedation is that it entails high costs. In comparison to purchasing sedative drugs, you have to shell out a few extra more bucks for this sedation process.
Aside from the sedative itself, the cost also includes the skill of the person who administers the sedative.
- Full Recovery Takes Time
People who receive sedatives intravenously require more time to recover from them. Usually, the effect wears off outside the dentist’s office, meaning, even after the procedures or treatments, the patient will need to wait for a couple of hours.
- You Will Not Unlearn Your Fears
While IV sedation helps you feel relaxed because you will fall asleep during the treatment process, this will not help you unlearn your dental fears and anxieties. As noted, you will not remember anything from the procedure because you are not aware of the whole process.
Final Thoughts
All in all, the best sedation process for you will depend on your case. You alone can determine which is more suitable.
But, even if you have your own preference, make sure to consult with your dentist at Markham Stouffville Smile Centre. They will advise you which will work best for your condition.
