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Question: “Dr. Arnold, I saw on the news this
week that a little girl died as a result of being sedated
at her dentist’s office. I’ve considered
sedation for getting dental work done, but is it really
safe?”
Answer: That has certainly become a hot topic for
discussion over the past week in light of the tragedy that
occurred in Chicago recently. There are many types
of sedation used in dentistry, and they are all very safe
when utilized properly. Sedation is a wonderful option
for many patients, and it can facilitate the successful
completion of a variety of dental procedures.
Sedation options range from general sedation, to IV sedation,
oral conscious sedation, nitrous oxide, and a variety of
other modalities that are less commonly used. Sedation
is often used in dentistry to help fearful patients complete
procedures in a relaxed state without anxiety. It
can also make surgery easier to perform because patients
are much less likely to move at an inopportune moment, which
can make the procedure more challenging.
One of the most common techniques utilized by dentists
all over the country is oral conscious sedation. With
oral conscious sedation, patients just take a safe little
pill one hour before their appointment. This pill
helps them to relax and eliminates their dental fear. Most
patients snooze through the appointment, feel no discomfort,
and have no memory of the procedures.
Many of these fearful patients begin chewing without pain
and smiling with confidence for the first time in years. These
benefits are often life-changing for people who have procrastinated
getting their mouths healthy or enhancing their smiles. Sedation
dentistry is even beneficial for patients who aren’t
fearful, but would like to be more comfortable during lengthy
dental procedures.
Of course, there are inherent risks with the use of any
drug, so a careful consideration of one’s age and
medical history is essential before utilizing any of these
sedation techniques. Additionally, it is important
for the dental team to discuss these issues thoroughly so
that patients understand any potential drawbacks. However,
when sedation is appropriate for a patient and it is administered
properly, it is extremely safe.
Dr. Jim Arnold is a practicing dentist in Chesterton and Valparaiso. He is also a clinical mentor with the Hornbrook Group and serves on the Advisory Board for the Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics as the Fellowship Chairman. You may send questions to his office at: 1830 South 11th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 or email them to: drarnold@SmilesByArnold.com. More information on this or many other dental topics can be found at www.SmilesByArnold.com.
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