Schrott Perio Implants provides sedation for periodontal and dental implant procedures in Belmont, MA. For more details on our services or to make an appointment, please call us at 617-484-9240.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry helps patients relax by administering safe medications during their dental procedures. Sedation is helpful for patients who experience anxiety at the dentist’s office and those who feel uncomfortable sitting through a lengthy appointment.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Relieves Anxiety
Most people who request sedation dentistry feel nervous about going to the dentist. There is no shame in requesting sedation to help you complete your appointment. Your periodontal health is essential; anything you can do to support it is positive.
Eliminates Discomfort
Some patients feel discomfort even with local anesthesia. These patients benefit a great deal from sedation.
Makes Long Appointments Feel Shorter
If you have a lengthy procedure, you may feel bored and uncomfortable sitting in the chair for an extended time. Sedation helps the appointment move quickly. This benefit also means that your periodontist can perform more procedures in one appointment, leading to less surgical procedures and less time in the dental office.
Safer Procedures
Patients who do not move during periodontal procedures are safer. Periodontists appreciate working with patients who are completely relaxed.
Sedation Options We Offer
Schrott Perio Implants offers two levels of sedation in our office:
Oral Sedation
The night before and an hour before your appointment, you will take one or two pills that help you feel relaxed. This light form of sedation is an excellent option for patients who need help getting through an appointment. You will need a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment. Women must not be pregnant.
An anesthesiologist is not needed for oral sedation.
IV Sedation
We also offer IV sedation, also known as deep sedation. We deliver medication through an IV to help you feel like you’ve slept through the appointment, but you will be conscious enough to respond to the periodontist’s requests. You will need a responsible driver here as well. Women must not be pregnant.
A qualified and experienced anesthesiologist will provide IV-sedation in our office for maximum comfort and safety.
Are You a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Most patients are good candidates for sedation dentistry. People who have these traits benefit most from sedation:
- Long, potentially uncomfortable procedure
- Dental anxiety or phobia
- High level of sensitivity during dental procedures
- Strong gag reflex
- Resistance to local anesthesia
The following medical conditions may interfere with receiving sedation during a dental procedure:
- Chronic respiratory disease or bronchitis
- Pregnancy
- Allergy to medication
- Certain prescription medications
Before the procedure, you may need an evaluation with your primary care doctor if you have a complex medical history or take multiple medications.
Why Choose Schrott Perio Implants?
Our office provides expert periodontal and dental implant services with an anesthesiologist on site for IV sedation. We maintain a friendly, warm office environment with compassionate and non-judgmental staff.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Will I be asleep during my procedure?
If you receive IV sedation, you will feel as if you have been asleep. You will not be aware of what the periodontist is doing. If you have oral sedation, you will be conscious of what is happening but very relaxed. Most patients receiving oral sedation do not remember the procedure the next day.
Why is an anesthesiologist’s supervision necessary for IV sedation?
IV sedation involves using powerful medications. The patient’s vital signs, like pulse rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation, need monitoring during the procedure. An anesthesiologist is best qualified to provide these services.
Can older patients receive sedation?
This question strongly depends on the patient’s health and underlying conditions. Some older patients are qualified to receive sedation, while others are not.
Can I drive after sedation dentistry?
Patients must not drive after oral sedation or IV sedation. You will need a driver to and from your appointments.
How long does it take to recover from sedation?
The effects of IV sedation take less than 24 hours to wear off. Rest quietly at home during this time. For oral sedation, you should feel recovered in a few hours but avoid driving or operating machinery for the rest of the day.
Can sedation dentistry help me with my anxiety about dental work?
Many patients who have used sedation dentistry are impressed with how their pre-appointment anxiety has diminished. Knowing you will not experience a prolonged or uncomfortable procedure will make you less likely to put off your dental appointment.
Call Schrott Perio Implants
If you are interested in sedation dentistry, we can help you discover whether it is right for you. Call our office at 617-484-9420 to ask about our services and make an appointment.