Treatments Under Sedation

Dental and surgical treatments under sedation can be stressful and may induce anxiety in some patients. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon can alleviate these feelings by using relaxation and sedation medications, creating a calm and accessible treatment experience for individuals with anxiety.

Types of Sedation:

Every patient is unique in their feelings and needs, and the surgeon decides the type of sedation required for the patient based on their level of anxiety and concern.

• Mild Sedation: Using nitrous oxide (laughing gas), mild sedation provides a sense of relaxation where the patient remains fully awake but calm without fear. During treatment, the surgeon places a mask over the patient’s nose, and the patient inhales nitrous oxide. Mild sedation with laughing gas is suitable for mild anxiety cases, and after the treatment, the surgeon stops the gas flow, and the patient quickly returns to full alertness.
• Moderate Sedation: With the help of preoperative medication administered about half an hour before the procedure, the patient enters a deeper state of relaxation. In moderate sedation, the patient remains awake and aware of their surroundings but won’t remember the treatment. Afterward, the patient can return home to rest for a few hours until the effects of the medication wear off.
• Deep Sedation: With an anesthesiologist present during the procedure, the patient receives medication through an IV to induce a state close to sleep while still breathing on their own. The anesthesiologist closely monitors vital signs throughout the treatment. At the end of the procedure, the anesthesiologist stops the medication, and the patient awakens quickly without memory of the procedure, anxiety, or fear.

Safety in Sedation:

• Patient safety is a top priority during sedation, with strict adherence to safety guidelines throughout the process.
• Monitoring: Advanced monitoring equipment in the clinic allows the surgeon to continuously assess vital signs during the entire sedation procedure.
• Anesthesia Specialist: An anesthesia specialist (anesthesiologist) is present in the treatment room during deep sedation, responsible for administering relaxation medications and monitoring the patient’s vital signs.
• Emergency Protocols: The clinic is equipped with advanced emergency medical equipment to address unforeseen situations, ensuring the utmost safety during the sedation procedure.