Although the two are completely different, there is some confusion as to what is general anesthesia and what is conscious sedation dentistry Waterloo. To decide what would be best for you during your next dental procedure, it is important to understand what each involves.
Conscious Dental Sedation
Conscious sedation can be mild or moderate. Your dentist will administer the sedation in the form of gas, a pill, or an IV. You will stay awake during the procedure and will be able to cooperate with your dentist, but you will feel sleepy and relaxed. Conscious sedation is ideal for patients who have a fear of the dentist, have a sensitive gag reflex, or are undergoing complex treatment that will take long to complete.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is not a type of sedation, as it makes you unconscious for the procedure. You can receive general anesthesia through a face mask or IV.
It is common for general anesthesia to be an option for extensive dental surgery, like the removal of several impacted wisdom teeth. However, it can also be an option when the patient is a very young child, has a mental or physical disability, or is medically compromised. It is also useful in situations where sedation has failed in the past.
Similarities and Differences
Both options offer pain relief and amnesia and can lead to similar side effects, including tiredness and nausea. However, general anesthesia also relaxes the muscles and can cause vomiting.
There are also some differences between gas sedation and other types of sedation and general anesthesia. Whereas gas sedation wears off immediately, the other options take longer to recover from. If you receive nitrous oxide gas, you will be able to drive yourself back from the appointment. With any other type of sedation and with general anesthesia, someone else will need to drive you home.
For appointment and consultation contact, Erbsville Dental – Waterloo Dentist.
