For many people, going to the dentist is stressful. Dental anxiety is not uncommon, and some procedures cannot be done with just local anesthesia for comfort. But then there is sedation dentistry and general anesthesia. But what is the difference between the two? If you are looking for sedation dentistry in Downtown Calgary, it is helpful to know how each works and which one might be best for you.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
The purpose of sedation dentistry is to administer a drug to relax and make a patient feel at ease during dental procedures. It is commonly used on patients with dental anxiety, fear of pain, or the need for extensive procedures. General anesthesia puts the patient completely under, whereas sedation dentistry provides a relaxed state in which the patient may still be awake.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
There are varying levels of sedation applied to dentistry:
- Minimal Sedation: The patient relaxes but is alert.
- Moderate Sedation: Patients will slur their speech and have minimal recall of the procedure.
- Deep Sedation: The patient is at the border of consciousness but may be easily awakened.
Common Methods of Sedation Dentistry
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): A mild sedative that is breathed in with a mask. It makes patients relax and fades away very soon.
- Oral Sedation: A pill swallowed prior to the visit to cause moderate sedation.
- IV Sedation: Drug delivered intravenously, enabling relaxation to a greater extent.
What Is General Anesthesia?
Contrary to sedation, general anesthesia is a form of profound anesthesia that is totally unconscious. It is commonly used for complex and prolonged procedures such as oral surgery and extraction of wisdom teeth. Unlike sedation dentistry, monitoring by an anesthesiologist or by some specially trained dentist near you will always be there whenever there is a general anesthesia used.
How General Anesthesia Works
- Administered through IV or inhalation.
- Patients are unconscious and have no memory of the procedure.
- Requires breathing assistance with a tube in some cases.
- Takes longer to recover compared to sedation dentistry.
Key Differences Between Sedation Dentistry and General Anesthesia
Sedation dentistry allows patients to remain relaxed but awake, while general anesthesia renders them completely unconscious. With sedation dentistry, patients may have little to no memory of the procedure but can still respond to instructions. In contrast, general anesthesia ensures total unconsciousness and requires more intensive monitoring. Recovery from sedation dentistry is usually quicker, whereas general anesthesia may require a longer recovery time.
When to Choose Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is a great option if you:
- Feel nervous or anxious about dental visits.
- Need a procedure like fillings, crowns, or deep cleanings.
- Want to be awake but deeply relaxed.
- Have a strong gag reflex that makes treatment difficult.
When to Choose General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is recommended when:
- The procedure is lengthy or complex, such as jaw surgery.
- The patient has special needs or difficulty staying still.
- The dentist believes pain management requires full unconsciousness.
How to Prepare for Sedation or General Anesthesia
- Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home if using oral or IV sedation.
- Follow your dentist’s specific instructions to ensure a smooth experience.
Which Option Is Right for You?
The choice between sedation dentistry and general anesthesia depends on your comfort level, medical history, and the procedure being performed. Your dentist will help determine the best approach based on your needs.
Looking for a Trusted Dentist
If you are looking for a dentist in Downtown Calgary who offers sedation dentistry, Terra Dental Care is here to help. Our team provides safe and effective sedation options to ensure your dental experience is as comfortable as possible. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and discuss the best sedation method for you!
