Conscious sedation can be applied in practically all dental patients unless they have a medical contraindication that will be previously assessed by the anesthesiologist in charge of the procedure.
It is especially indicated in long or very uncomfortable procedures and in uncooperative patients or patients with great anxiety and phobia of the dentist who have delayed consultations and have great deterioration in their oral health, in which the vicious circle of anxiety can be broken.
As it is an act controlled at all times by a specialist in Anesthesiology, it is not available in all clinics.
What does conscious sedation consist of?
Previously an evaluation of the patient’s health, allergies and usual medical treatments is performed, in addition to providing the information requested by the patient and obtaining the Informed Consent. You must keep fasting of solids and liquids for 6 hours prior to the appointment.
Intravenous conscious sedation is performed by our anesthesiologists administering drugs that cause a feeling of disconnection, sleep and very pleasant tranquility without reaching the loss of ability to contact or collaboration with professionals, with permanent control of the patient’s vital signs. We administer supplemental oxygen through the nose and also intravenous analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Basically, we complement the local anesthesia administered by the dentist to perform the procedure in a completely painless way.
How long does conscious sedation last?
The elimination of the drugs used is very fast and the patient recovers his previous state in a few minutes with practically no incidence of subsequent discomfort. The patient is monitored for a short time in the clinic and goes home with a companion.
Conscious sedation in children
Children are very fearful of the unknown and of separation from their parents, so that collaboration with the dentist is null in children under 6 or 8 years of age. The healthy child is one of the greatest beneficiaries of conscious sedation to avoid anxiety and phobia of the dentist; thus we can perform the entire dental procedure in one session to ensure their health and well-being.
Each patient must be evaluated individually to ensure minimal risk.
Benefits of outpatient sedation
The patient remains in a state of drowsiness similar to a nap without fear or pain and collaborating for the perfect performance of the procedure. In addition, he/she remembers practically nothing and leaves with complete peace of mind and satisfaction, wishing to repeat if necessary.