Do you get anxious during a dental procedure but want to feel relaxed, calm and at ease? That is when you opt for twilight sedation. It is like having one foot in a dream and another in reality. It creates a quiet, peaceful experience where you are sedated but awake enough to follow gentle commands. This new approach has changed how people think about dental procedures, making them less intimidating and more comfortable. Whether you have scheduled a minor surgery or a dental procedure, twilight sedation makes the process smoother.
This blog will talk about twilight sedation and how it can benefit you. Let’s get started!
Ready for a stress-free dental experience? Contact us to schedule your appointment.
A] What is Twilight Sedation?
Twilight sedation is used for many surgical procedures. The patient remains under light sleep but will not be unconscious like they would be with general anaesthesia. Twilight sedation in Sunshine Coast is usually achieved using a medication like ketamine, fentanyl, midazolam or valium that is administered intravenously. Other than that, nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, can be administered through a mask for twilight sleep. These can be used to create sleep for patients who choose sedation dentistry.
B] Advantages of Twilight Sedation
Compared to general anaesthesia, twilight sedation has several benefits for patients who need to undergo a dental surgical procedure. They are as follows:
1. Reduced Dental Anxiety
One of the advantages of twilight sedation is it helps in reducing dental anxiety to a very large extent. Many patients are afraid or intimidated by dental work, thereby increasing their stress levels and making them avoid seeking treatment. Twilight sedation creates a relaxed, calm state that may help appease the mind and reduce fears. If they realise that their anxiety is going to be managed properly, then patients are more likely to be comfortable and ready to proceed with procedures.
2. Helpful For Patients With Gag Reflex
A strong gag reflex during a dental procedure is quite a big issue for the patient to be still and comfortable. Twilight sedation relaxes these muscles, thus managing this reflex. Because of this, procedures that would otherwise be stopped by gagging can be completed without any hassles. It is beneficial for people whose treatment requires long on-the-table time.
3. Minimised Discomfort
Twilight sedation minimises discomfort during procedures. Unlike local anaesthesia, which simply numbs the area only at the site, twilight sedation induces a drowsy and relaxed state that offers a much deeper comfort. It tends to reduce the sensation of pain or discomfort, making procedures that are otherwise painful much more bearable. Patients will be less likely to experience the same level of discomfort during and after a procedure.
4. Conscious Awareness
The sedating nature of twilight sedation lets patients be aware of their surroundings during the procedure. This particular aspect of being conscious is vital in patient feedback procedures. For example, the patient can respond to verbal commands from their dentist or healthcare professional and make necessary adjustments for the procedure. That makes it a balance between sedation and awareness, providing controlled and effective management of the patient’s experience.
5. Quicker Recovery
Recovery time is another advantage of twilight sedation. Patients recover faster since the sedative effects are shorter and the intensity of sedation is less than in general anaesthesia. They are mostly back to their full senses quicker, enabling them to continue their activities as usual. This reduced recovery time is most welcome in patients who have to return to their routine quickly.
6. Anmesic Effect
Twilight sedation also has an amnestic component, whereby most patients have limited or no memory of the procedure at all. This will benefit people who are afraid or anxious about dental or medical procedures. Due to amnesia, less information is stored about the procedure; thus, less stress is created because the patient does not remember what was done to them.
7. Flexible Application
Another advantage associated with twilight sedation is its versatility. It can be used for routine cleanings and even for specified surgical procedures. Such flexibility makes twilight sedation an excellent option for the different conditions that patients need to treat. It can provide simple and complex treatments by adjusting the dosage according to the patient’s needs and preferences.
C] Potential Risks of Twilight Sedation
While twilight sedation is a safe and effective method for easing medical procedures, patients need to be mindful of its possible side effects. These can vary depending on the intensity and duration of sedation, but they are manageable and temporary.
Patients might feel confused and disoriented post-procedure, but it is temporary, and they might feel drowsy and have dry mouths after several hours. Nausea and vomiting are other potential side effects that can be caused due to sedation and the procedure itself.
A less common yet temporary side effect is memory loss. Patients might find it hard to recall minute details of the procedure or events that happen shortly after. It is important to listen to your dentist and follow a proper aftercare routine for a quick recovery. Our dentists in Sunshine Coast, Kawana, Maroochydore, Caloundra, and other regions help you with a customised plan for your dental procedures so that you can recover smoothly.
D] What Dental Procedures Use Twilight Sedation
Twilight sedation, also called twilight anaesthesia, is becoming popular in sedation dentistry for increased comfort during most dental procedures. Twilight sedation can be used for the following dental procedures:
- Wisdom Teeth Removal: This procedure involves the removal of wisdom teeth that are impacted, misaligned, or painful.
- Root Canals: Root canals are intended to remove infected or severely damaged pulp from within a tooth, followed by sealing and restoration. A dental crown is inserted for more protection.
- Dental Implants: In dental implants, titanium posts are inserted into the jawbone to serve as the base for artificial teeth. This procedure provides a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth.
- Scaling and Root Planing: This is a deep cleaning method to remove plaque and tartar under the gums, which causes periodontal diseases and is very uncomfortable for many patients who are not sedated.
Conclusion
If you have been putting off a dental procedure due to fear or anxiety, sedation dentistry with twilight anaesthesia could be your perfect solution. Throughout the procedure, you will be relaxed in the comfort of your dental clinic. At Oris Dental, we use a pain-free method for your dental procedures. Be it as simple as a dental crown or as complex as full mouth rehabilitation, we do it all. Our experts create a pain-free solution tailored to you. Contact us to book an appointment.
Call Us to Find Out If Twilight Sedation is Right for You.
FAQs
Q) How does twilight sedation dentistry work?
Ans: Twilight sedation is an advanced form of sedation that allows the patient to fall into a deep state of mental and physical calm. They are not unconscious throughout the dental procedure but will feel no pain in the area where the sedation is administered.
Q) Are you a good candidate for twilight sedation dentistry?
Ans: You are a good candidate for twilight sedation dentistry if you have a long and traumatic procedure schedule. If you experience extreme pain and sensitivity or have a strong gag or swallow reflex.
Q) What to expect with twilight sedation?
Ans: Twilight sedation will calm you down, and you won’t feel the pain during the dental procedure, but you will be conscious throughout the procedure.
Q) Can twilight sedation be used for any treatments?
Ans: Twilight sedation is used for procedures that do not require extensive operations or long duration.
Q) How long does it take to wake up after being sedated?
Ans: Most patients wake up quickly or even a few minutes after the procedure is over and the medications are stopped.
Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi
Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi, serving as the principal dentist at Oris Dental, brings a wealth of expertise spanning over 26 years to his esteemed practice. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics, he takes immense pride in rejuvenating countless smiles and instilling confidence in Sunshine Coast residents. As an esteemed member of the Australian Dental Association and esteemed dental societies, he remains steadfast in delivering exceptional care to his patients.
