Local anesthetic is typically sufficient to prevent pain during many dental treatments. However, sedation may also be appropriate for some patients, to ensure the safe, efficient delivery of common dental procedures. So, when is dental sedation appropriate?
Our goal is to ensure that all of our patients have a relaxed and comfortable dental experience with us.
When it comes to preventing pain during a dental treatment, many of our patients find that local anesthetic is sufficient. That said, some patients greatly benefit from additional sedation to help them feel calmer and more relaxed about treatment.
Because each of our patients is unique, sedation and general anesthesia requirements are determined by our dentists on a case-by-case basis.
Dental sedation may be recommended by our dentists in the following cases:
- Patients with special healthcare requirements or medically compromised;
- Patients who require help preventing or addressing dental phobias;
- Patients experiencing high anxiety due to fear or low pain tolerance;
- Patients who find that local anesthetic is not effective in pain control;
- Patients allergic to local aesthetic;
- Patients with exaggerated gag reflexes who experience choking sensations;
- Patients requiring a dental procedure that will take a long time to complete, is complex, or is particularly invasive;
- Patients who have difficulty holding their mouth open for sustained periods of time;
- Patients with special needs due to mental or physical disabilities and who have difficulties staying still during dental treatment.
Your dental health is important! Don't skip essential oral health treatment due to anxiety or discomfort. Our Richmonds dentists can help to calm your anxiety so that you can receive the dental treatment you need, in a relaxed and comfortable manner.
