An overwhelming sense of fear has always been a companion to us when we think of entering
that room embellished with metallic surgical equipment. Though they are meant to alleviate our
pain, most people have that preconceived notion of pain. In fact, calming down anxious adults
can be more daunting than cajoling our children.
However, there are effective methods like behavioral therapy and desensitization that can help
alleviate their fears. Further, with advancements in medical science, pharmacological sedative
methods have also emerged as a way to reduce anxiety during surgical procedures. Among these
methods, conscious sedation is the most modern and popular technique that dentists rely on to
help the patient feel more relaxed and comfortable.
What is conscious sedation?
Conscious sedation is a method in which the use of a drug or drugs induces a state of depression
in the central nervous system for the effective delivery of the treatment. As a result, the patient
goes into a relaxed state but responds to spoken commands and interacts verbally with the dental
personnel.
Why Dentistry adopts conscious sedation?
For patients who have low coping ability, dental fear, and anxiety, conscious sedation is an
excellent way to alleviate fears and induce a state of tranquility.
Likewise, for prolonged dental work, conscious sedation is the perfect sedation technique. It
keeps the patient peaceful and relaxed throughout the procedure. As a result, the dentist can
complete the procedure more quickly and effectively.
Similarly, patients with less pain tolerance may perceive dental procedures as a nightmare.
Consequently, it turns out to be a more difficult and uncomfortable experience for them and the
dentist. In this context, conscious sedation induces a state of calmness and relaxation in the
patient. Thus, it ensures a seamless procedure.
Benefits of conscious sedation in Dentistry
# 1. The patient’s safety and welfare: Conscious sedation makes sure that the patient is
safe and comfortable throughout the procedure.
# 2. High-quality care: Conscious sedation assists us in carrying out the procedure
more effectively and efficiently. It ensures that the patient gets the highest possible
care.
# 3. A boon to anxious minds: Conscious sedation helps the patient to remain calm
during the procedure. Thus it reduces anxiety and stress.
# 4. Elicit favorable psychological response: Since conscious sedation gives comfort
and ease, patients, especially child patients develop a fearless approach toward the
treatment.
# 5. A cost-effective and safer option than general anesthesia.
# 6. Conscious sedation does not require hospitalization.
Conscious sedation methods
There are several ways to induce conscious sedation, including inhalation sedation, oral sedation,
and intravenous sedation. Among them, inhalation sedation is the popular one for inducing
conscious sedation because it is safe, effective, and easy to administer. Accordingly, we’ve
adopted the same.
Let’s take a look at inhalation sedation.
Inhalation sedation: Nitrous oxide is the inhalation anesthetic here. In contrast to other sedatives,
nitrous oxide does not require any recovery time. As a result, the effects of the gas swiftly
subside as the mask is taken off. Consequently, the patient can return to her regular activities
without much delay. In conclusion, nitrous oxide-induced conscious sedation has a quick onset
of action and is easily reversible.
Preparation for conscious sedation
· We Examine the full medical and dental history of the patient to confirm that she is healthy
enough to deal with the sedative.
· Specialists are on call to address any underlying medical or surgical issues in patients with
special needs.
· Emergency preparedness with the right equipment and manpower.
· An awareness session for the patient and the guardian. Then only we begin the procedure for
written consent.
· Choosing the conscious sedation strategy based on the treatment plan and the patient’s
condition.
Is conscious sedation advisable for kids less than five years?
Conscious sedation requires the patient to inhale and exhale through the mask on the nose.
Children under the age of five may find it difficult to do it continuously till the completion of the
procedure. Their mental and physical abilities are not mature enough to cope with the procedure.
Therefore conscious sedation is not advisable for children below five years.
Are there any side effects of conscious sedation?
There may follow discomforts like drowsiness heaviness, nausea, headache, slow reflexes, etc.
However, well-crafted post-sedation instructions are there to minimize the complications.
Our state-of-the-art workstation ensures safe and effective conscious sedation
Our advanced anesthesia workstation is designed with all the necessary safety parameters to
ensure the comfort and safety of the patient during the conscious sedation process. To further
enhance safety, we’ve deployed top-notch technologies. For instance, we have the
next-generation multifunction monitor. It regularly monitors and records vital signs throughout
the conscious sedation procedure. Thus, we’ve arranged the most modern facilities for our
patients.
Let’s calm the anxious minds
As we strive to make every dental appointment a relaxing and stress-free experience, we offer
the best and most advanced conscious sedation in dentistry in best dental clinic Trivandrum. So, the next time even our childishadults also will sit relaxed during the dental procedure. Let’s experience dental procedures in
complete tranquility.
