National Dental Hygiene Month is a national effort to bring awareness on the importance of good oral health. This year focuses on maintaining a healthy smile, by brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist.
Good dental hygiene can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. An unhealthy mouth can increase the risk of health problems, such as poorly controlled diabetes, stroke, and heart issues.
Unfortunately, when you have fear or anxiety about going to the dentist, it isn’t easy to keep up with oral health. Which is why Intravenous Sedation (IV) has become so popular.
It allows the patient to relax and get the dental health care they need by alleviating the anxiety, fear, and pain associated with treatment.
The advantage of IV sedation is as little medication as possible through a small needle in the patient’s hand or arm. Allowing a constant “drip” via an intravenous tube. The medication is tailored to each specific patient.
Having an experienced CRNA come to your dental office to administer the IV sedation eliminates the expense of having the procedure done in a same day surgical facility or operating room.
IV sedation dentistry is a good option for children, those with disabilities, older adults, and patients who feel anxiety.
IV sedation for children
It can be difficult for a young child to sit still for a long period of time. IV sedation allows for multiple procedure to be done in one appointment, while the child is calm and relaxed.
Due to the anxiety, many children struggle during the appointment. Who can blame them, the instruments, sounds, and lights are enough to make anyone uncomfortable. Sedation reduces the risk of any injuries. Sedation also allows children to relax and have a happier outlook about the dentist. Which will encourage them to have a lifetime of good oral health.
Those with special needs or medical issues are particularly vulnerable to anxiety. Sedation helps guide cooperative behavior and reduces spontaneous movement.
Check back with us next week for information on how IV sedation for dentistry can help older adults and those with anxiety. Until then, contact Blue Sky Anesthesia Associates for more information.
