|
|
|
|
Having Anesthesia/Sedation for Dental Procedures
It is common for many
patients to feel nervous or anxious about their dental procedure.
Your dentist has advanced training in ways to help with your anxiety
which may include other medications to make you feel more
comfortable. By having a more relaxed patient your dentist may be
able to complete more of your dentistry in one appointment. In other
cases, a more relaxed patient may be safer for them as well as being
more relaxed. The information below will address the most commonly
asked questions regarding anesthesia. The decisions of which type of
sedation/anesthesia will be determined by you in consultation with
your doctor.
What is Sedation
and Anesthesia?
During dental and oral surgical procedures local anesthesia (Novocain)
is administered to block painful sensations. However, the anxiety that
many people experience can be eliminated by administering sedative
drugs, such as Valium type medications. A sedated patient may remember
and be aware of the procedures, but will be more relaxed and
comfortable. Additional medications, such as agents similar to
pentothal and inhaled gases, are sometimes used to provide general
anesthesia, which places the patient more deeply asleep. In this
state the patient has no awareness or memory of the procedure.
How is the
Medication Administered?
The sedative and anesthetic medications are typically given
intravenously (IV). Since the effects are so rapid by this means of
administration, your doctor can precisely give the correct amounts of
the medications to make you relaxed and comfortable. Also, if more
medications are needed during the procedure, the IV allows easy
administration of additional medications. IV administration also
means the patient will awaken very quickly.
How am I
Monitored During the Procedure?
Depending on the depth of the sedation and anesthetic being used, as
well as your own medical condition, various monitors are used. These
vary from ventilatory monitors, such as precordial stethoscopes and
capnometers, to pulse oximeters which measure the oxygen concentration
in your blood. An automatic blood pressure monitor and EKG are also
required. The doctor along with at least one or two life support and
anesthesia trained staff members will always be with you and closely
observing you throughout your treatment.
Is Anesthesia
Safe?
The use of sedation and anesthesia in dentistry has a
commendable record of safety. This is due to the advanced training
your doctor has and his/her commitment to your overall health. It is
important to advise your doctor of all medications that you take as
well as any changes in your health since your last visit.
In Florida a special permit is required to administer intravenous
medications. In order to qualify your doctor had to provide evidence
of advanced training in anesthesia and often a site inspection is
required. The ability to handle emergency situations as well as having
specific emergency medications and equipment is also mandatory.
What is the FDSA?
The Florida Dental Society of Anesthesiology is a group of
dentists who are committed to the task of making dental care more
pleasant through a variety of advanced pain and anxiety control
techniques. Membership in this organization is evidence of his/her
concern for your comfort and health.
|
