Twilight Sedation for Nervous Patients
Why Do Some Patients Experience Fear Of Visiting The Dentist?
If you fear a trip to the dentist, you are not alone. But why is this so? There seems to be a number of reasons. Some patients have a fear of the unknown; some may have had a past traumatic experience, especially in their childhood; while others’ fear may be based on horror stories they have heard.
What is 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, the same treatment you would receive with traditional dentistry is conducted while you are in a “twilight sleep,” and breathing comfortably on your own. You will be aware of what is going on around you, and 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 the noises, smells, needles or drilling, and feel like no time has passed at all! You will just feel like you’ve had a very deep and satisfying sleep. No pain, no discomfort and no fear! In addition, the recovery time is shorter than with general anaesthesia, typically lasting 30 to 45 minutes after the procedure is complete. Patients are then free to return home.
Additional Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Because you will be so comfortable and free of anxiety and fatigue, we can work even more efficiently and for a longer period than usual, often accomplishing in a single office visit what might normally require multiple visits, such as placement of multiple fillings or a combination of treatments.
This also makes sedation an ideal choice for people who prefer to undergo complex procedures in one office 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.”
Whether you have had a bad experience or dread going to the dentist for any reason, have difficulty keeping your mouth open, need lengthy or extensive treatment, require an invasive procedure such as wisdom tooth removal or surgical extraction, or you are just short of time, Twilight Sedation may be just what you’re looking for.
Your Sedation Questions Answered
Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
People who have . . .
- High fear
- Had traumatic dental experiences
- Difficulty getting numb
- A bad gag reflex
- Very sensitive teeth
- Complex dental problems
- Limited time to complete dental care
People who . . .
- Are between the ages of 18-60.
- Hate needles.
- 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 and you will be responsive. Time will appear to go very quickly and an hour of treatment will appear to take about 10 minutes.
Will I Be Monitored?
Yes, one of our team is 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, it can be about an hour.
Will Someone Need To Accompany Me?
Yes, due to the sedative effects of the medication, you will need someone to drive you to our office and home again, 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.
O Connor Moore Dental Practice Twilight Sedation
O Connor Moore Dental Practice Twilight Sedation or intravenous sedation is our preferred method of sedation With I.V. your doses are controlled so you get just the right amount of medication, keeping you very comfortable during the procedure. You will have no memory of the treatment if that is your goal. Dr. O’ Connor, Dr. MacHale and Dr. Moore are certified and licensed for IV sedation. Fewer than 3% of general dentists have IV certification.
Our surgeries are specifically equipped for dealing with Twilight sedation with all the necessary safety monitors.
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