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Is Sedation Dentistry an Option for Dental Implant Treatment?

Posted in Sedation Dentistry
Posted on July 27, 2022 by Dr. Gerald Marlin

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Sedation dentistry is the use of medications or treatments to help patients relax during their dental procedure. There are different levels of sedation, and Dr. Marlin may use a combination of treatments to meet your unique needs. Sedation dentistry is considered safe and effective for qualified patients [1].

At Elite Prosthetic Dentistry, our focus remains on your health and comfort while you are receiving treatment with us, which is why we offer sedation dentistry at our office. Can you receive sedation dentistry when getting dental implant treatment with us? Here’s what you need to know.

Yes, Sedation Dentistry Is an Option

Sedation dentistry is certainly an option for patients undergoing dental implant treatment. Whether you are getting one or several dental implants placed, you have the option of being sedated for the procedure so that you can remain relaxed and comfortable.

Although higher levels of sedation are generally not necessary for dental implant treatment, they are an option for patients who suffer from dental anxiety or phobia. At Elite Prosthetic Dentistry, we are committed to helping our patients get the treatment they need with less stress and anxiety with our sedation dentistry options.

We use different anesthetics for the actual dental implant procedure, which will ensure that you remain pain-free regardless of your level of sedation. Before the procedure, we will let you know what to expect during recovery.

Types of Sedation Dentistry Available

There are several types of sedation dentistry available for a dental implant procedure, including:

  • Nitrous oxide. Also called laughing gas, nitrous oxide has instant effects and wears off quickly. It allows you to stay fully conscious yet relaxed throughout the procedure. This is the lightest level of sedation offered.
  • Oral sedation. With oral sedation, you will take a pill when you arrive for your appointment to help you relax. You’ll still be awake and able to respond, but you may not remember much of your procedure. This moderate level of sedation is customizable based on your needs.
  • IV sedation. The deepest level of sedation, IV sedation, is when you will be given medication through an IV to help you relax into a sleep-like state. This is different from general anesthesia, but you will be largely unaware of your procedure and be the most relaxed possible during your appointment [2]. It is not general anesthesia, but, rather, is equivalent to “twilight sedation” or “conscious sedation” you receive when undergoing a colonoscopy.

Dr. Marlin will work closely with you to understand your needs for sedation dentistry and customize a treatment plan based on your desires and what would help you be most comfortable during your dental implant procedure.

Who Qualifies for Sedation Dentistry?

Many people qualify for sedation dentistry. If you have fear or anxiety surrounding dental procedures, needles, or pain, sedation dentistry may benefit you during the dental implant placement process.

People who are sensitive to others being in their personal space during the treatment process or individuals with special needs are also good candidates for sedation dentistry. Since sedation dentistry is highly personalized, there are many candidates who could benefit [3].

Elite Prosthetic Dentistry is a judgment-free practice, and we are dedicated to helping you remain comfortable during your appointment regardless of why you’re pursuing sedation dentistry.

Elite Prosthetic Dentistry Goes the Extra Mile for Your Comfort

With our friendly and compassionate staff, clear communication, and dedication to your comfort, Elite Prosthetic Dentistry goes the extra mile for our patients by providing sedation dentistry as an option for dental implant treatment.

Prior to your procedure, we will closely review your medical history and any conditions you may have with your physician to ensure we provide safe and effective treatment. Find out more about our sedation dentistry options by booking a consultation with us.

Sources:

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5005095/
  2. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339150293_Intravenous_sedation_in_dental_implant_surgeries_A_systematic_review_of_hemodynamic_effects
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4780209/
Dr. Gerald Marlin
Dr. Gerald Marlin has been Recognized as a Washingtonian ‘Top Dentist’ for over 20 Consecutive Years by His Peers, as recently acknowledged in the Washingtonian “Hall of Fame 2024”.

Through this commitment, Dr. Marlin provides his patients with long-lasting (35 years vs. the national average of 7-10 years) aesthetic restorations so that they have virtually no future problems.

As such, he is a leading specialist in dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, sedation dentistry , and restorative dentistry  in the Bethesda–Chevy Chase, Northern Virginia, and Washington DC Metro Area. He has inserted and restored over 3,600 dental implants.