Sedation Dentistry
Mount Kisco, NY
Sedation Dentistry provided by Dr. Gary Orentlicher and Dr. Andrew Horowitz in Mt. Kisco, NY at New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery
 Do you dread going to the dentist?
Does just thinking about it make your heart race and your palms sweaty?
If so, you're not alone. Patients everywhere experience some degree of dental anxiety; but that doesn't mean you have to suffer in silence.
Sedation dentistry can provide an excellent solution for those who fear visiting the dentist or need more intense procedures done without trying to manage the stress of dental work.
At New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery in Mount Kisco, NY, Dr. Gary Orentlicher and Dr. Andrew Horowitz provide sedation options to ensure you have as comfortable an experience as possible.
How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?
Sedation dentistry is a modern dental treatment that helps patients manage the fear associated with dental procedures.
Dr. Gary Orentlicher and Dr. Andrew Horowitz administer specialized medications to achieve a relaxed and comfortable state, allowing the patient to get through the process with minimal stress.
Generally, sedatives are delivered in two forms: orally (by pill) or intravenously (through an IV). Our oral surgeons will monitor the patient's sedation level and adjust medication as needed throughout the procedure.
Depending on the procedure and individual needs, both mild and deep levels of sedation can be achieved.
With mild sedation or "twilight sleep" patients remain conscious and can respond briefly to verbal commands but stay at ease and experience no memory recall afterward.
For deep levels of sedation, an anesthesiologist and intravenous medication may be involved, which will render the patient unconscious.
From dental cleanings to more intensive operations, sedation dentistry makes dental procedures much more tolerable for patients, from kids needing their first checkup to adults undergoing complex treatments.
What Is Conscious Sedation Dentistry?
Conscious sedation dentistry is administering medications to help patients relax and stay comfortable during dental treatment.
By providing a safe and appropriate anesthetic, conscious sedation allows for the efficient and accurate completion of complex procedures quickly, with minimal discomfort or anxiety felt by the patient.
This type of dentistry is beneficial when dealing with more complex techniques such as extractions, reconstructive surgery, oral surgery, or when working with fearful or anxious patients.
The use of this precise technology allows a dental practitioner to complete multiple treatments in one session while minimizing feelings of stress and ensuring maximum comfort throughout the process.
Conscious sedation dentistry provides worry-free service backed by state-of-the-art comfort protocols.
What Medication is Used for IV Sedation Dentistry?
Do you have a fear of the dentist? You're not alone - luckily, there's something that can help! IV sedation dentistry is an effective option for calming anxieties and allowing patients to undergo dental procedures comfortably without stress.
But what medication is used for this practice? Let's explore all your options for IV sedation so you can get the treatment you need - on your terms!
Midazolam
Midazolam is a versatile medication that is commonly used in IV sedation dentistry. As a benzodiazepine, it gently calms dental anxiety while delivering mild amnesia without causing intense sleepiness or memory loss.
Midazolam can help patients feel at ease and relaxed; however, instructions are still given by our doctors due to this medication's limited effects.
Its effects last about three hours, depending on age, health condition, and the dosage received.
Alfentanil
Alfentanil is a synthetic opioid often used during IV sedation dentistry to relieve pain and help the patient relax.
With its three-fold action, alfentanil binds to mu-opioid receptors in the spinal cord, traps pain signals before they reach the brain, and triggers an endogenous opioid release for more thorough anesthesia.
The drug is also non-invasive and assuages pain naturally, so patients don't wake up groggy or dizzy after treatment.
Dexmedetomidine
Dexmedetomidine is a powerful anti-anxiety and sedative drug used extensively in IV sedation dentistry.
It works by slowing down the part of the brain responsible for relaying pain signals, making it ideal for dental procedures.
While under its effects, patients remain conscious but experience complete physical relaxation, reducing pain perception and lessening anxiety levels.
Another advantage of dexmedetomidine is that it doesn't have any unwanted side effects when administered intravenously (IV) and can be safely discontinued without rebound problems or withdrawal symptoms.
What Medication Is Used for Oral Sedation Dentistry?
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas," is one of the most popular medications used in modern oral sedation dentistry.
Unlike other sedatives and painkillers, nitrous oxide wears off within a few minutes of stopping, minimizing any potential long-term residual effects.
During an appointment, our oral surgeons can mix nitrous oxide at different levels depending on how much relaxation you need, and can be turned off instantly if a patient experiences too much calm or drowsiness.
Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used primarily in oral sedation dentistry to relieve pain. It can produce drowsiness, euphoria, relaxation, and memory loss.
Its effects are milder but longer-lasting than other sedatives typically used in dentistry, including benzodiazepines like Valium and Versed.
Fentanyl also has a lower risk of respiration depression when used in proper doses and is therefore preferred among dental experts for IV sedation.
Propofol
Propofol is commonly used in oral sedation dentistry to induce and maintain anesthesia. This drug can be metabolized quickly, making it ideal for oral sedation procedures due to the shorter recovery period associated with its use.
It produces a light, superficial level of unconsciousness, allowing patients to remain responsive during the procedure, conscious but free from pain or anxiety.
Propofol's common side effects are a safer option than other sedatives as it has less risk for oversedation, rebound excitement, and nausea. Its effectiveness can also help promote faster completion of dental work and patient satisfaction.
Who Should Avoid Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can be a great way to help alleviate anxiety during dental procedures. However, some people should avoid this type of treatment.
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Patients with a history of severe drug reactions or allergies
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Patients with a history of respiratory problems, such as sleep apnea or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
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Patients with a history of heart disease or high blood pressure
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Patients with uncontrolled diabetes
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Patients with a history of alcohol or drug abuse
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Pregnant women
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Patients with a history of psychological conditions, such as anxiety or depression
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Patients who are taking certain medications that may interact with sedatives |
Call Our Mount Kisco Office Today to Discuss Your Sedation Options !
Our oral surgeons and professional team at New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery in Mount Kisco is ready to help you select the sedation options that are right for you and your procedure. Call us today at (914) 768-8220 with questions, or to schedule an appointment. |
