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Problem Solver » Sedation for Nervous Patients

• “Overcome your Dental Fear, Anxiety or Phobia” In this course of 7 FREE emails we show you how you can start to overcome your dental fear with simple, practical and relaxing techniques. We'll also tell you more about dental sedation and how it can help you relax your way to dental health a special report by Dr Helen Walsh and Dr Nick Beirne

   

• Twilight sedation - dentistry while you sleep

  Many patients are apprehensive about visiting the dentist; in fact it is very often the reason why they may not have been in a very long time. If the sight of needles, and the smells, sounds and tastes associated with many dental procedures make you want to run for the nearest exit, then sedation dentistry may be just what you need to get you back into the dentist’s chair.

  Sedation dentistry is not just for those who are nervous about dental procedures, it can also help patients who have difficulty controlling their gag reflex, experience pain because of sensitive teeth or do not respond well to numbing medications. It allows us to perform several dental procedures in just one appointment!

  Intravenous sedation is our preferred method at Portobello Dental Clinic. Using this technique, your dose is controlled so that you get just the right amount of medication, keeping you very comfortable during the procedure. Both Dr. Beirne and Dr. Walsh are certified and licensed to offer IV sedation, with a combined experience of over 18 years in this field.

  What Twilight Sedation?

  Twilight Sedation is the most advanced form of dental sedation. It uses a combination of sedative and pain relieving drugs given intravenously to create a dream-like state of deep, calm relaxation for the entire duration of your dental procedure.

  During conscious Twilight or Sedation dentistry, you receive the same treatment as you would with traditional dentistry, but it is carried out while you are in a "twilight sleep," and breathing comfortably on your own. You may be somewhat aware of what is going on around you, and you will be able to answer when spoken to and adjust your position if necessary.

• After the Procedure

  When you wake up you will usually have no memory of your dental treatment, and it will feel like no time has passed at all! You will just feel like you've had a very deep and satisfying sleep, with no pain, no discomfort and no fear! In addition, the recovery time is shorter than with general anaesthesia, typically lasting less than one hour after your treatment is complete.

  Additional Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

  Because you will be so comfortable and free of anxiety, we can work even more efficiently and for a longer period than usual, often accomplishing in a single visit what might normally require multiple visits, such as placement of multiple fillings, or a combination of different treatments. This also makes sedation an ideal choice for people who prefer to undergo complex procedures in one visit, instead of having them spread out over several appointments. In addition, people who experience a strong gag reflex (which tends to interfere with dental treatment) will be freed from the problem, since such reflexes will be disabled during their "twilight sleep."

  Who Is a Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?

  People who have...
  • High fear
  • A past history of difficult dental procedures
  • An unpleasant childhood memory of dentistry
  • Difficulty getting numb
  • A bad gag reflex
  • Very sensitive teeth
  • Complex dental problems
  • Limited time to complete dental care
  People who...
  • Hate the noises, smells and tastes associated with dental care
  • Are afraid or embarrassed about their teeth

  Will I be unconscious?

  No, you will be in a deeply relaxed state, but you will be able to respond. Time will appear to go very quickly and an hour of treatment will appear to take about 10 minutes.

  Will I be monitored?

  Yes, at least two members of our team are always with you and your vital signs are monitored during the entire visit. You are never alone.

  How long will I be asleep?

  Depending on your needs, about an hour.

  Will someone need to come with me?

  Yes, due to the after effects of the sedation, you will need someone to drive you home from our clinic and also to stay with you and mind you for the rest of the day.

  Will i be ok the following day?

  Yes it will be completely worn off the following day.

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