Sedation Dentistry in Coral Gables, FL
What is sedation dentistry?
Our AVM Dentistry team understands that many patients are hesitant about dental visits due to anxiety or fears. Different levels of anesthesia and sedation allow your dentist in Coral Gables, FL to treat you in a manner that you find comfortable. Dr. Velazquez will assess your treatment options and recommend a level of sedation that will allow you to relax during your procedure. An in depth consultation prior to administering anesthesia helps to optimize the long-term outcome for your procedure while assuming a minimal risk for complications.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide therapy or “laughing gas” is a mild sedative that is commonly used in dentistry. It is a colorless and odorless gas that is administered through a small mask over your nose. This allows you to achieve a level of relaxation as well as reduce pain during the procedure. Nitrous oxide is not addictive and exits the body within a few minutes.
Oral Sedation
AVM Dentistry offers oral sedation for patients who prefer a more moderate level of sedation. Some patients are given oral medications that are administered directly to the affected area while dental work is performed. Others may be put in a deeper state of relaxation, but will still be able to respond to light stimulation. Patients may feel drowsy and fall asleep during the procedure. Those who choose to be sedated are required to follow a few pre-procedural recommendations and have a driver available to assist them on the day of their procedure.
General Anesthesia
General Anesthesia is a controlled state of unconsciousness where a patient cannot feel, see, or hear anything during the procedure. The medication can be administered through various routes and is an extension of deep sedation, helping limit movement and discomfort during dental treatment. A highly trained and specialized anesthesiologist is required to provide this type of anesthesia to assure absolute patient safety. Our team at AVM Dentistry is trained to provide this service!
Before Treatment
It is important to prepare at home before your procedure. For the best possible healing, follow all of Dr. Velazquez’s specific recommendations.
- Transportation. If you’re receiving sedation or anesthesia, you will have to arrange for transportation to and from surgery.
- Fasting. If you’re receiving sedation or anesthesia, you will be required to fast. Your dentist will tell you exactly how many hours you need to fast for.
- Soft Foods. Make sure you have soft foods in your house. Prepare soups, yogurts, oatmeal, and applesauce for after the surgery.
After Treatment
If you’re receiving sedation or anesthesia, you may be taken into a recovery room after the procedure. If you only have local anesthesia, your quick recovery time will most likely be in the dental chair. For the best possible healing, follow all of Dr.Velazquez’s specific recommendations.
- Bleeding. Some oozing of blood for about 24-48 hours after surgery is normal and should be expected. Do not be alarmed if your saliva has a pink color to it. Replace the gauze over the site as directed by your dentist in Coral Gables, FL.
- Swelling and Bruising. Use an ice pack as directed by Dr. Velazquez. Any swelling usually resolves in a few days, but bruising may take a few extra days to resolve.
- Pain Management. You may be able to manage any pain with over-the-counter medication or a prescription medication from Dr. Velazquez. Follow your dentist’s specific medication recommendations.
- Rest. After your surgery, plan to rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous activity that could dislodge any clotting blood.
- Food. Eat only soft foods for at least the first 24 hours. Avoid hard, chewy, hot or spicy foods that can irritate the wound.
- Tobacco Use. If you smoke or use tobacco products, don’t do so for at least 72 hours after surgery! Using tobacco products can delay healing and increase the risk of infection and complications.
