The thought of oral surgery triggers a degree of anxiety in most people. It’s a natural response. You’re having a procedure, and there is always the possibility, even if it is remote, of a complication. You may be worried about the potential for pain or having to sit for a long time with your mouth open while someone “pokes around.” These are all normal reactions, but at Highland Oral Surgery, we help our patients overcome dental anxiety and alleviate the discomfort associated with oral surgery through sedation dentistry.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry focuses on alleviating dental phobia or anxiety, helping you relax during oral surgery or dental procedures. There are various levels of sedation available depending on your level of anxiety and how uncomfortable you are with the thought of surgery. Any sedation for oral surgery we use in Waltham, MA, starts with a local anesthetic for pain-free oral surgery. However, we may also administer nitrous oxide, IV sedation, oral sedation, or general anesthesia to help you relax. Depending on what level of sedation is used, you may be deeply relaxed or semi-conscious. During surgery, you will not feel any pain, and you may not recall the procedure after recovery.
Types of Sedation for Oral Surgery
The surgeons at Highland Oral Surgery are qualified to offer any of the following types of sedation to alleviate dental anxiety:
- Nitrous Oxide: For minor oral surgery and dental procedures, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is the lightest form of sedation. You will remain aware of what is going on but feel relaxed and giddy.
- Oral Sedation: This is an oral medication, typically a pill prescribed to be taken several hours before your procedure. You will need to have someone drive you to and from your appointment because you will be too groggy to drive.
- IV Sedation: Our surgeons use IV sedation more than any other form of sedation to alleviate dental anxiety. The anesthesia is administered directly into your bloodstream through an IV line in your arm. Most patients fall into a light sleep (also known as twilight sleep) but can still respond to their surgeon. If you have severe anxiety or dental phobia or are undergoing a complex or lengthy surgery, you will probably receive an IV sedative.
- General Anesthesia: We reserve general anesthesia for the most complex surgical procedures, typically those performed at a hospital or surgical center. You are completely unconscious, and your breathing is regulated by a licensed anesthesiologist under general anesthesia.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
We offer sedation for oral surgery in Waltham, MA, to any patient who has dental anxiety or dental phobia that prevents them from seeking proper care. It is also appropriate for individuals who:
- Have a low pain threshold
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Have had a bad oral surgery or dental experience in the past
- Can’t sit still during treatment
- Are neurodivergent
- Are undergoing a lengthy procedure
- Have medical conditions such as epilepsy, which can flare with stress
- Are uncooperative because they don’t understand what is happening (young children and individuals with special needs)
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when administered by experienced oral surgeons or anesthesiologists. While there is always a risk, as with any medical procedure, the risk is low, and complications are rare. Our surgeons will review your medical history, including all the medications you take and any chronic health conditions, before recommending sedation dentistry or choosing an appropriate type of sedation. Our surgeons are all trained and qualified to administer the various types of sedation available at Highland Oral Surgery.
We strictly adhere to all FDA dosage guidelines for sedatives, taking into account each patient’s age, health, and medication history. Your vitals are monitored at all times, and oxygen and appropriate medications are available in the event of any adverse reaction.
Why Choose Highland Oral Surgery & Implant Center If You Have Dental Anxiety
Dr. Bishop is fully trained in administering all levels of sedation, including general anesthesia. Not all oral surgery offices have the capability or experience to administer the strongest level of general anesthesia for complex surgical procedures. Dr. Bishop achieved this distinction at Tufts Medical Center, allowing him to perform pain-free oral surgery on even the most anxious of patients.
Do not let dental anxiety stand in the way of having your wisdom teeth removed or any other type of needed dental work or surgery that can improve your health and relieve your pain. Highland Oral Surgery offers all levels of sedation for oral surgery in Waltham, Newton, Lexington MA and surrounding areas, allowing our patients to find relief without pain or stress.
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