Sedation before any dental procedure is recommended for patients who are extremely anxious or sensitive to pain. When done intravenously, sedation takes effect more quickly, making patients relax almost immediately. But before being sedated, patients about to undergo any dental procedure must go through several preliminary steps.
First things first
Contrary to what you may see in movies and television shows, patients don’t immediately sit in the dentist’s chair and get injected with sedatives. The first thing the sedation dentist does is ask a lot of questions! During consultation, the dentists studies the patient’s complete medical history, evaluates his or her needs and takes the patient’s vital signs. A preliminary oral exam follows and may include diagnostic x-rays or CT scans.
Be thorough
When the dentist asks if you’re taking any medications, make sure to mention all drugs, including supplements and herbal remedies that you’re taking. The dentist will use this important information to determine the correct dosage and the best type of sedative–one that won’t have any side effects or interactions with the drugs you’re already taking.
Final Preps
After reviewing your medical history, the dentist formulates a treatment plan. Your dentist will discuss this with you, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. You will be required to sign a treatment consent form to show that you have understood the procedure and agree to the treatment plan. Before the consultation ends, the dentist may give you instructions and medication prior to your appointment.
Dental Teamwork
For patients with medical conditions like diabetes, the dentist also asks for your primary care physician’s contact information to discuss medications and to determine if you are fit enough for the procedure. Your dental care team wants the best for you and makes sure that treatment will be safe. Sedation dentistry is one of the services offered by New Albany implant dentist Dr. Ron Receveur. If you want to know more, don’t hesitate to call.
