How We Utilize Sedation to Alleviate Patient Anxiety

Oral surgery is sometimes necessary for dental health. When a problem arises that requires surgery, it can make some patients feel uneasy and even anxious. Dental anxiety is a common condition affecting a wide variety of people of all ages. For some it can be severe enough to prevent them from getting the dental care they need. 

The good news is that there are options for patients who feel anxious about dental procedures. Sedation can help you feel more relaxed and in some cases not even remember the procedure afterwards. Here’s how we utilize sedation to alleviate patient anxiety

What is Sedation?

Sedation is the use of medically induced relaxation techniques during dental or medical procedures. Various forms of medication are used and administered in a variety of ways to help patients feel relaxed and calm. 

Types of Sedation 

The main types of sedation used in dentistry and oral surgery include: 

• Local anesthesia. Local anesthesia involves the injection of an anesthetic solution adjacent to the nerves which numbs the area so that the patient does not feel any pain. Most common medications used for local anesthesia are lidocaine, mepivacaine, bupivacaine, and prilocaine.

• Nitrous oxide. For patients who need additional sedation in order to have local anesthesia applied, nitrous oxide is often used. A mask is placed over your nose that delivers a combination of gasses that provide a calming effect. As you breathe in through your nose the nitrous oxide takes effect quickly. Your arms and legs may feel heavy and you may feel a tingling sensation in your fingers and toes. It wears off in just a few minutes after your procedure so you can resume your normal activities. 

• IV sedation. Medication administered through an IV can relax you to the point where you are completely unaware of the procedure. You are technically conscious and will respond to requests, but you most likely won’t remember anything afterwards. 

• Hospital-based IV sedation. For particularly complex, invasive, or lengthy procedures your oral surgeon may recommend hospital-based IV sedation, otherwise known as general anesthesia. This is the type of sedation used for other surgical procedures that take place in a hospital setting. You will be completely unconscious but closely monitored while under sedation to ensure that you are safe and well throughout the procedure. 

How Does Sedation Alleviate Anxiety in Patients?

Dental anxiety stems from a wide variety of concerns and fears. Some patients may be afraid of needles, while others are afraid of the sound of the dental tools. In some cases it's the idea of being put to sleep that causes anxiety and in others it is fear of pain. We welcome you to discuss your worries and fears with us so that we can create a plan that will help you get the dental care you need with the least amount of anxiety and stress. 

In our experience using sedation, we have seen patients make a total transformation from fearful and anxious to calm and relaxed. Some patients have such a positive experience with sedation that their dental anxiety is completely gone after a single procedure. 

Fullerton Oral Surgery Provides Sedation 

If you’re in need of an oral surgery that makes you feel anxious, Fullerton Oral Surgery is here to help. We provide a range of sedation options to help alleviate patient anxiety, allowing you to get the procedure you need without fear and stress. Our compassionate care and judgment-free understanding will put you at ease and help you feel as comfortable as possible. 

To learn more, call 714-525-1178 or contact us today to schedule a consultation.