Sedation Dentistry Helping Those with Mental Illness

Dental professionals always strive to find the best ways to provide care for those with mental health issues. People with illnesses like ADHD, hyperactivity, PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, and autism are more likely to suffer from severe dental phobias.

Now, thanks to advancements in the field of sedation dentistry, even the most anxious or fearful individuals can remain peaceful and calm throughout their dental appointments.

What Does Sedation Entail and How Does It Work?

Sedatives induce a state of drowsiness and relaxation for the patient, allowing them to stay calm and cooperate during treatments. Dentists frequently use sedation for patients with issues like dental phobia due to previous negative experiences and uncooperative patients. Sedation dentistry has also proven to be effective in relaxing dental patients suffering from psychological or neurological disorders.

What Types of Sedation Are Used in Dentistry?

Inhalation Sedation 

Mild sedatives can be administered to patients through a mask that delivers a constant supply of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oxygen. The patient becomes drowsy, calm, and relaxed after inhaling nitrous oxide.

Oral Sedation 

Oral sedation is a mild-to-moderate option. Dentists give patients an oral sedative to take the night before their appointment and another to take 4 hours prior to the appointment.

Intravenous Sedation

IV sedation is administered through the veins. Intravenous sedatives act quickly and their effects are the most profound.

What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry for People Who Suffer From Mental Illnesses?

Patients suffering from mental illnesses are frequently afraid to visit the dentist and experience tremendous stress when thinking about dental treatments and procedures. This can cause them to be in a fight or flight state, resulting in excessive reflexes and reactions and heavy breathing. 

When a patient is agitated, it is challenging to have them sit in a dental chair for longer periods as they may feel trapped or as if they are losing control. As a result, the dental care of these patients is frequently neglected. Sedation dentistry allows patients with mental illnesses to receive the gentle and caring dental care they need.

Dr. Talluri at Arden Dental Care offers complete sedation dentistry services to help patients benefit from a comfortable, pain-free dental experience. For more details or to request an appointment, call us at (916) 481-2001 or visit our website. You can also visit us at 1832 Avondale Ave Ste 1, Sacramento, CA 95825.