Almost all patients know that “laughing gas” and other sedative options are used in hospitals. However, few only know about sedation dentistry in Gramercy Park. One type of sedation used by dentists is laughing gas, but it’s not the only one. Dentists can safely give you a sedative to help you unwind during painful dental treatments, including oral surgery.
Laughing gas (nitrous oxide), oral sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation are some of the several forms of sedation. Nearly all dentists are qualified to give nitrous oxide inhalations or recommend oral sedatives, but they must have the appropriate certification to provide IV sedation.
What Are the Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry?
Headache Is Possible as a Side Effect
After being sedated, a headache may set in. The facial and scalp muscles may contract because of the anesthesia, but this will subside quickly once the recovery starts. If you have a headache, you don’t have to panic. However, if it persists or becomes painful, you must consult a dental professional.
Low Blood Pressure
Reduced brain metabolism, blood flow, and intracranial pressure are all effects of sedation. The adverse effects of headache, tiredness, and dizziness may also result from low blood pressure. Nonetheless, dental professionals are very cautious about this, especially when they are dealing with seniors.
A Long Reflex
It is natural to expect that it will take some time for your body to resume its “normal” state after waking up from a sedative state. This is because the effects of sedation will slow down some parts of the entire body.
Give your body a day to rest so that your reflexes will have enough time to catch up. It would help if you also kept someone at your side following the procedure. Ensure you have a few obligations or activities that could jeopardize your safety at home. Avoid tasks like cooking that call for quick reactions and heavy lifting. All these apply only when you are heavily sedated. It’s important to note that most sedatives subside quickly and will not affect your day.
Forgetfulness
A patient can enter a “twilight state” when dentists use moderate sedatives like nitrous oxide. This state indicates that the patient isn’t aware of what they’re saying and is likely to forget what they said when things get back to normal. Be prepared for the possibility that you won’t remember anything that happened during the process and avoid engaging in any activities that call for intense attention or important judgment calls.
Sluggish Feelings and Drowsiness
You’ll feel heavy or sluggish after receiving sedation dentistry since it causes your muscles to relax to the extent of a trance-like state – this is quite normal. However, after receiving sedation, it is strongly advised that no one drives themselves home or operates large or complicated machinery.
Drowsiness during surgery is a very frequent side effect of sedation, and many patients discover that this effect persists for a long time after the treatment is finished. It’s typically advised to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery because some gases can make you sleepy or affect your perception. To regain your strength following sedation, make sure to obtain as much sleep as you can.
Advantages of Sedation Dentistry in Gramercy Park
The simple benefits of sedation dentistry include being conscious during dental procedures for those who experience dental phobia or anxiety. When it comes to uncomfortable and painful operations, such as getting braces installed or having a tooth extracted, sedatives are also strongly advised.
Sedation dentistry ultimately helps patients receive dental care without being hindered by fear or anxiety, enabling them to attain greater oral health and more attractive smiles. Give us a call if you have any questions.
