Different Types of Sedation Dentistry: Which One is Right for You?

Different Types of Sedation Dentistry

Are you thinking of getting sedation dentistry for your next dental procedure but not sure if it’s right for you? Understanding the different types of sedation dentistry available can help ease your decision-making process. Let’s find the perfect way of sedation that fits your needs.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry, also known as dental sedation, refers to the administration of medication or drugs to help patients relax while the dentist proceeds with the treatment. It is a moderate level of sedation used for individuals with dental anxiety, fear, or phobia, as well as those undergoing extensive treatments or with special needs. 

By inducing a state of relaxation and calmness, sedation dentistry allows patients to undergo treatment comfortably while minimising discomfort and anxiety.  Sedation dentistry can range from mild forms, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to deeper levels of sedation, including IV sedation dentistry or general anesthesia. It can be customised as per your specific needs and preferences of each patient, making sure you get a positive dental experience.

How Sedation Dentistry Works and Its Benefits?

In sedation dentistry, various medications are used to induce relaxation and calmness in patients during dental procedures. These medications can be administered orally, through inhalation, or intravenously, depending on the preference of the patient and the nature of the treatment. By targeting the central nervous system, sedatives alleviate anxiety, enabling patients to undergo dental procedures with ease.

  • Reduces anxiety and fear associated with dental visits.
  • Helps manage a sensitive gag reflex, facilitating smoother procedures.
  • Minimises discomfort and pain during dental treatment.
  • Enables patients to undergo more extensive or multiple procedures in a single visit.
  • Promotes a positive dental experience, fostering better oral health habits.
  • Enhances patient cooperation and compliance with treatment plans.

Know Your Options: Determining the Types of Sedation Dentistry

When it comes to sedation dentistry, various options are available to cater to different needs and preferences. Let’s explore the differences between each type to help you make an informed decision:

1. Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide, popularly recognized as laughing gas, is a lenient form of sedation administered through a mask placed over the nose. This form of inhaled sedation induces relaxation and reduces anxiety, making it ideal for patients with mild dental apprehension. The nitrous oxide effects wear off quickly, which lets patients go back to normal activities after the procedure.

2. Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves taking prescribed medication, typically benzodiazepines like lorazepam or diazepam, to induce a relaxed state. This form of oral conscious sedation is suitable for patients with moderate dental anxiety. While patients remain conscious, they may experience drowsiness and have limited memory of the procedure.

3. Intravenous (IV) Sedation

IV sedation entails administering sedatives directly into the bloodstream via an IV line. This is also termed sleep dentistry or twilight dentistry. IV sedation is a type of liquid sedation in pediatric dentistry that provides a deeper level of calmness and relaxation than nitrous oxide or oral sedation, making it suitable for patients with severe dental anxiety, fear or undergoing complex procedures. IV sedation gives precise control of the sedative’s dosage and provides rapid onset of effects.

4. General Anesthesia

General anesthesia renders the patient completely unconscious throughout the dental procedure. It is typically reserved for extensive surgeries or patients with profound dental phobia. Administered by an anesthesiologist, general anesthesia ensures the patient feels no pain and has no recollection of the procedure.

Factors to Consider

Following are some of the things you should consider if you are contemplating child sedation dentistry:

1. Your Level of Anxiety

Assess the level of dental anxiety honestly. Different sedation options cater to varying degrees of anxiety, ensuring a comfortable experience tailored to your needs.

2. Type of Procedure

Consider the complexity and duration of the dental procedure. While mild sedation like nitrous oxide may suffice for routine cleanings, more invasive treatments may require deeper sedation options.

3. Medical History and Health Conditions

Discuss any underlying medical conditions or medications with your dentist in sunshine coast. Certain health conditions may impact the choice of sedation, necessitating careful evaluation for safety.

4. Making the Right Choice

If considering sedation for a child, additional considerations apply. Pediatric dentists specialise in providing safe and effective sedation options suitable for children’s unique needs.

Comparing Sedation Dentistry Options: Which One Suits You Best?

Here’s a comparison chart outlining the different options for sedation dentistry:

Criteria Nitrous Oxide Sedation Oral Sedation Intravenous (IV) Sedation General Anesthesia
Method of Administration Inhalation through a mask Ingested orally as a pill Administered via an IV line Administered via an IV line
Level of Sedation Mild Moderate Moderate to Deep Deep
Consciousness Conscious but relaxed Conscious but relaxed Conscious but drowsy Unconscious
Onset of Effects Rapid Moderate Rapid Rapid
Duration of Effects Short Moderate to Long Short Short to Moderate
Memory of Procedure Clear Foggy Variable None
Suitability for Anxiety Mild to Moderate Moderate to Severe Severe Severe
Transportation Requirement Usually not required Required Required Required
Patient Monitoring Minimal Minimal Moderate Intensive
Anesthesiologist Required? No No Sometimes Yes

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of sedation dentistry is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and stress-free dental experience. Whether it’s mild sedation like nitrous oxide or deeper sedation options such as intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, sedation dentistry offers a solution for patients with varying levels of dental anxiety. By consulting with a qualified sedation dentist at Oris Dental, individuals can determine the most appropriate option based on their unique needs, anxiety levels, and the complexity of the procedure. Schedule your consultation with Oris Dental today to discover the best sedation option for your dental needs and enjoy a stress-free experience.

FAQs

What Are the Advantages of Sedation Dentistry?

Ans: There are multiple benefits of sedation dentistry. For example, reduced anxiety and fear, enhanced comfort during dental procedures, improved cooperation from patients, as well as the ability to undergo extensive treatments in a single visit.

What Are the 4 Levels of Sedation?

Ans: The four levels of sedation in dentistry are minimal sedation, moderate sedation, deep sedation, and general anesthesia. Each level corresponds to varying degrees of consciousness and responsiveness.

Is General Anaesthesia Ever Used in Dentistry?

Ans: Yes, general anesthesia is occasionally used in dentistry for complex procedures or patients with severe dental phobia. It induces a state of unconsciousness, ensuring the patient feels no pain during the procedure.

What Happens After Sedation Dentistry?

Ans: After sedation dentistry, patients may experience residual effects such as drowsiness, grogginess, or temporary memory loss. Patients need to have a responsible adult accompany them home and follow any post-procedure instructions given by the dentist to ensure a safe recovery.

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi - Dentist at Oris Dental

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.

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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.

Adarsh (Principal Dentist)

Adarsh

Adarsh (A-Dash) is the principal dentist at Oris Dental. Adarsh graduated as a dentist in 1996 from the University of Mumbai (Bombay, India). He entered private practice as an assistant dentist in one of the leading practices in Mumbai from 1996-2002. The practice offered all aspects of dentistry with the exception of Orthodontics. This prompted Adarsh to pursue a post graduate degree in Orthodontics and successfully completed the 3 year Full time the master’s program from University of Mumbai (Bombay, India) in 2005. Since then, Adarsh has been in private practice both as a general dentist and an orthodontist. He also served as teaching faculty at University in Mumbai for 3 yrs and when in India, he has been ‘the dentist’ to many dentists!! In 2008, Adarsh took the Australian Dental Council exam for direct recognition of his skill in Australia. He successfully completed the exams in the first attempt and moved to Australia early 2009. He has been in private practice in Australia since Jan 2009. Oris Dental was set up in Minyama in 2011. Oris Dental is now over 8 years old and is growing to be a well-respected practice in the area. He is particularly interested in Cosmetic dentistry Dental implants and Orthodontics. Adarsh hopes to use all the experience he has gained in the past 22 years, to offer the best in dentistry to all his patients in this practice. Adarsh believes in spreading smiles and has successfully designed smiles and in doing so improved the lives and self-confidence of many Sunshine Coast locals (Take a look at our Smile gallery!). Adarsh is an active member of the Australian Dental Association since 2009 He held the post of Senior Lecturer in Orthodontics in Mumbai University before moving to Australia. He is a Life member of the Indian Dental Association, serving as the General Secretary of the Association (Mumbai City Chapter) 2007-2009 He is Life member of the Indian Orthodontic Society. He is Candidate for Membership Examination MRACDS (Ortho) and plans to complete his membership exams soon. Adarsh is also currently pursuing his Diploma in Implant dentistry at the Royal College of Surgeons(Edinburgh). Adarsh has recently complete intensive training in implant placement and restoration in Neoss and TRI (Swiss) Implant system. He is married to Prachi for 15yrs and they have a 11 yr old son – Aarjav, a little daughter Aria who has just started prep and Daisy the mad Lab pup! He is currently learning to play Tennis and Badminton and loves watching the cricket!

Prachi (Owner/ Dentist)

Prachi

Prachi is the director, part time dentist at Oris Dental. Prachi graduated in 2002 from Nair hospital dental college, Mumbai (Bombay, India), one of the leading dental schools in Asia. She then worked in multiple private practices across Mumbai (Bombay, India). While working as a dentist in various practices she picked up the positives from them and implemented them into this practice at Oris Dental. She is very friendly by nature and is particularly good at handling children, preventive dentistry and hygiene. Prachi moved to Australia in 2009. Prachi has there on completed her Australian Dental council exams successfully in early 2011 and is now ready to bring in her 12 years of experience to Oris Dental. Prachi also serves as a part time dentist at the Oral Health Services Sunshine Coast in Caloundra Kawana and Nambour as needed.

Davina (Dentist)

Davina

Davina has been a part of our family since 2014. After completing her bachelor’s degree from the University of Queensland, Davina has been in private practice in an around the Sunshine coast for a year before joining us full time. Davina shows exemplary skills in building a great relationship and rapport with her patients and is well regarded by her peers. Davina is very highly regarded by her current patients. Davina currently works 3 days a week.

Lise Slack (Dental Hygienist)

Lise Stack

Our dental hygienist Lise Slack is a trained member of the dental team who works together with your dentist in preventing gum diseases and dental decay.

Lise joined OrisDental in 2015 and has worked extensively in private specialist practices. She graduated from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa in 1982 and has had specific training and exposure to an extensive range of periodontal conditions and treatment modalities.

Lise’s dad was a professor in dentistry and this is where her love of teeth comes from. She has invented two specialist oral care products which are available in Australia and several international countries. Lise has also lectured at international dental conferences on the maintenance of dental implants and how to help patients care for their teeth once they have contracted periodontitis.

Both adults and children can benefit from having an appointment with a dental hygienist as they are taught how dental diseases occur and how it can be prevented or managed.

Lise is married to Sam and they have two daughters. They value their family time and love adventurous outdoor sports.

Jesse (Dental Assistant)

Jesse (Dental Assistant)

Jess has been a part of Oris Dental from the outset in 2011. Always cheerful and welcoming Jess is the star amongst our patients at our practice. If you cannot find Jess in the practice she will be at the beach!

 

Kaela (Receptionist)

Debra (Receptionist)

Kaela arrived at our practice in early 2021. Coming from eight years of retail experience in Northern NSW, she loves working with people and assisting in any way she can. Kaela has also just finished her training as a dental assistant. You will immediately fall in love with her happy, bubbly personality.

Abby (Sr. Dental Assistant)

Abby (Dental Assistant)

Abby is originally from Hervey Bay, but she has been calling the Sunshine Coast home with her husband and two kids for the past four and a half years. Abby completed her cert III in dental assisting in 2015 and is looking to further her studies In the near future. Abby enjoys camping, playing guitar, and travelling
the world with her family.

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    Dr. Param Dass

    Dr. Param Dass

    Param Dass graduated with a Bachelor in Dentistry from the University of Otago, NZ in 2005. He went on to complete his Bachelor in Medicine from the University of Auckland NZ in 2010.

    Param started working part time in our practice since 2015 with special interest in surgical procedures including Dental implants and bone grafting procedures, Surgical extractions including Wisdom teeth and other minor surgical procedures.

    Param is well known for being gentle and caring in treating patients with dental anxiety and maintains a calm demeanour.

    He is also well trained in working with patients with various levels of anxiety, offering dental treatment under Happy Gas, Twilight sedation or under Full general anaesthetic.

    Dr. Brayden Fracchia

    Dr. Brayden Fracchia

    Brayden hails from North Queensland, having completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at JCU Cairns, practicing in Hobart and outreach dentistry from Mount Isa over the course of his studies. He has worked with us since 2020. Brayden enjoys becoming a part of a community and enjoys the outdoors and sport in his spare
    time. Having only recently moved to the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Brayden is enthusiastic and well versed in all aspects of basic general dentistry and looks forward to bringing North Queensland hospitality to the South East.

    Briar

    Briar

    Briar stated off as a trainee dental assistant in our practice mid-2020. She is the youngest member of our practice and is rapidly becoming an integral part of team Oris. Briar completed her Certificate 3 in our practice in 2021 and works full time Dental assistant at Oris Dental.

    Drew

    Drew

    Drew is Oris Dental’ newest member, who has only recently moved from his hometown of Rockhampton. He is our Oral Health Therapist, who specializes in oral health education, general check-ups, fillings and more!
    He loves a good chat and a laugh at work. He prioritizes patient’s comfort and likes to encourage an environment where everyone feels a sense of security and safety in the dental setting. When Drew isn’t at work you’ll find him having a refreshing swim at the beach or having his usual dirty chai at his local cafe.

    Jasmine

    Jasmine

    Jasmine joined our practice in November 2021 and works with our Oral Health Therapist Drew. Jasmine is new to dental assistance, however is quickly taking on any and all challenges that come her way! She loves animals, and spending quality time with her husband and two kids. Welcome to the team!

    Brooke

    Brooke

    Brooke is originally from Brisbane but has been living on the coast since 2017. She brings over 15 years of experience in the dental industry and has had the opportunity to work in London and Melbourne for the Royal Flying Doctors. Brooke enjoys surfing, scuba diving and exploring the many things that the Sunny Coast has to offer.

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