Dental implants in Coral Springs are threaded titanium bolts screwed into the jawbone. Some patients become anxious or fearful imagining the process even though the oral surgeon will always use local anesthesia to prevent pain.You can choose to use sedation aside from local anesthesia if you feel afraid of the procedure. Sedation helps calm you down so you can be more comfortable or cooperative. There are four common options, and each type affects you differently during and after the dental operation.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is also known as the “laughing gas.” The nickname pertains to its depressive effect on the patient, giving way to happy emotions even during surgery. However, nitrous oxide’s function is to only slow down your brain’s reaction. It dulls your thoughts and removes anxiety or fear. The body eliminates nitrous oxide quickly. The oral surgeon will adjust your intake as he sees fit throughout the procedure. He will also give you oxygen after the operation to eliminate any residual nitrous oxide so you can drive home.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation uses medicines that are more potent than nitrous oxide. Medications that oral surgeons use include midazolam, propofol, dexmedetomidine and ketamine. Aside from inducing a calming effect, these drugs can also make you lose awareness of the procedure. However, you remain awake during the surgery. Sedative drugs can remain in effect for up to 120 minutes after you take them. You will need someone to drive you home after the surgery.
Intravenous Conscious Sedation
IV conscious sedation combines both anesthetic and sedative drugs to soothe a patient and numb him from pain. The use of an IV line hastens the onset of the medicine’s effect. Unlike oral conscious sedation, IV sedatives can kick in as quick as three to five minutes after injection. IV sedatives can remain in effect beyond the surgery. You’ll need to rest for at least a day to allow the body to thoroughly flush out the medicines.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia will make you unconscious during the procedure. Dentists will choose this option if the surgery takes longer than one hour. General anesthesia is also ideal for uncooperative or overly anxious patients.
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