For those with general or dental anxieties, general anesthesia might seem like the simplest and best choice for getting through an upcoming dental procedure without having a panic or anxiety attack. However, there’s a safer and simpler solution: sedation dentistry. Sedation offers a number of benefits that can help you feel relaxed during your time in the dentist’s chair. Take a look at some of the top benefits of sedation dentistry and find out why it’s often the better option in a dental setting.
The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Here’s a high-level look at some of the top benefits of sedation dentistry:
Sense of well-being – sedation can slow your racing thoughts, help you remain calm and deliver a sense that all is well.
Settled in – anxiety can make it hard to sit still, especially for long periods of time. A sedative can make you feel much more comfortable sitting still for a long time.
Less active gag reflex – sedation can relax your gag reflex. For those with an overactive gag reflex, you’ll be less likely to feel nauseated as your dentist works in your mouth.
Why General Anesthesia Is Less Commonly Used
Sedation is much more common in dental settings than general anesthesia. While sedatives may make you sleep, you can be easily roused if you do so. With general anesthesia, you’ll have to wait until the medication wears off before you can be awakened.
Considering the short amount of time needed for many dental procedures, being asleep for hours simply isn’t worth it. In addition, there’s always an elevated risk when putting someone under general anesthesia.
The Value of Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is a powerful tool that can numb an area of the mouth, or the entire mouth. Its numbing effect doesn’t just block pain, it can also lower your anxiety if you get anxious about pain. Knowing that you won’t feel pain after receiving a dose of a local anesthetic can help you remain calm during your procedure.
More on Sedation Dentistry in Van Nuys, CA
Reserve an appointment with a local dentist to learn more about your options for sedation dentistry in Van Nuys, CA.