Although sedation is necessary for many dental procedures, it is also an option for people who fear the dentist for even minor procedures. Dental anxiety is a very common problem and prevents countless people from seeing a dentist as often as they should which, almost inevitably, results in problems with the teeth and gums and other dental issues that could possibly have been avoided.
There are a number sedation levels available and these vary from very light to heavy. The most commonly used forms of sedation currently employed by a dentist are:
Nitrous oxide. Commonly called “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide is the lightest form of sedation and wears off quickly.
Oral sedation. Heavier than nitrous oxide, the strength of an oral sedative will depend on the procedure being carried out.
Moderate sedation. Usually in the form of an injection (or injections), moderate sedation relaxes and numbs the muscles but leaves the patient conscious.
A general anaesthetic is the heaviest form of sedation and patients will remain drowsy after the procedure and incapable of driving home. Modern sedation dentistry is considered to be a safe and effective practice and an invaluable aid to patients with dental anxiety. Read more at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/is-sedation-dentistry-safe/