Can I Get Sedation Dentistry if I Take Prescription Meds?

Sedation dentistry is one of the greatest features of seeing a dentist in today’s world. Now, no matter how much anxiety a person may feel about the idea of visiting the dentist, they can feel relaxed and comfortable in the dentist’s chair. At the same time, many people are taking prescription medications these days. A dental patient may take one or more prescription medications, from chronic painkillers to medication for underlying issues. The question is, can you still take advantage of sedation dentistry if you take prescription meds?

Talk to Your Dentist

Before getting any kind ofsedation dentistry in Cocoa, FL, or elsewhere, be sure to talk to your dentist. In fact, your dentist will talk to you beforehand and ask about any prescription drugs you may be taking. This is because your safety is the priority during your dental visit. If need be, bring a list of medications you take and the dosage information. Remember, your dentist is a professional, so any information that you provide is strictly confidential and will only be shared with other professionals on a need-to-know basis.

Be Aware of the Different Types of Sedation

There are various levels of sedation used in dentistry, from mild (inhaled nitrous oxide or “laughing gas”) to moderate (oral sedatives or intravenous sedation) to deep sedation and general anesthesia. The type of sedation your dentist recommends can influence the safety and feasibility of using sedation alongside your medications. In most cases, your dentist will only use the most mild form of sedation dentistry just to take the edge off.

If you have any concerns about the effects of sedation dentistry and the way it may interact with your prescription medication, you should contact your primary care physician. They will have detailed information so that both you and your dentist can be fully informed. In the meantime, it’s time for you to book your next appointment with yourCocoa, FL, dentist! Contact us today.

Sedation

How Sedation Dentistry Works for Different Age Groups

When people look intosedation dentistry in Cocoa, FL, and what it entails, they might find a lot of general information about the procedures. However, most of what you’ll find will speak in generalities, and people might understandably be more confused about it after researching than before they started. If you want to learn more about how this branch of dentistry works for different kinds of patients, we’ll look at how it’s divided based on age groups.

Sedation Dentistry by Age 

Sedation dentistry will be different for patients based on everything from their medical history to their temperament. However, most dentists will adhere to a few rules based on the age of their patients:

  • Kids: Dentists will only use deep sedation or general anesthesia if they absolutely need to. Unless it’s a complex procedure or the child is extremely afraid of the dentist, dentists will choose nitrous oxide or oral medication if needed.
  • Teenagers: Teenagers will have their dosages adjusted for either nitrous oxide or oral anesthesia. If they’re open to an injection, they may be offered a sedative that ensures they’re relaxed but conscious during the procedure.
  • Adults: Adults are typically given a more extensive array of options, which can include anything from oral medications to IV sedation.

Dental Phobias in Cocoa, FL

There are lots of people who are afraid of thedentist in Cocoa, FL, and these fears can manifest in any number of ways. Sedation dentistry doesn’t just reduce the amount of pain that people might feel during a procedure; it can help them cope with treatments that they might have otherwise put off or avoided altogether. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits for you or a loved one, the staff at PSJ Dental Care can explain more.