Is a Patient Sedated When Getting a Dental Implant?

For someone who has lost a permanent tooth, undergoing dental implant surgery can be the closest way to regain the feel and function of a natural tooth. However, people anxious about surgeries or dental appointments in general may be distressed at the thought of an unpleasant or painful experience. As with any surgery, patients can decide if they want to be sedated or given any medication. To help with the pain or discomfort that may occur during the procedure, the dentist may suggest sedation dentistry.

Managing comfort during dental implant surgery

Since placing dental implants is a surgical procedure, patients generally require some form of sedation to stay comfortable during the process. The type of anesthesia utilized depends on the number of implants to be placed, the dentist’s preference and the patient’s pain tolerance levels. Regardless of the choice of sedation, the patient should not feel anything throughout the surgery.

To fully understand the benefits of sedation dentistry for this, it is essential to understand the dental implant surgery itself. During the procedure, the dentist will insert a small titanium post under the gums so it can integrate with the jawbone. This entails cutting the gums to access the jawbone, which could cause soreness. It is better to be relaxed or asleep for the surgery.

Sedation dentistry options

There are different options for patients who decide to be sedated. If only one or two implants are to be placed, then the dentist may not need to administer general anesthetic. A local anesthetic is usually enough to keep the patient comfortable while placing the implants. However, if the dentist will also perform a bone graft procedure to augment the jawbone, the dentist might prefer to operate on the patient while they are unconscious.

Another alternative usable during dental implant surgery is conscious sedation. This form of sedation helps patients relax throughout the surgery and is usually used along with local anesthetic. The sedation is often administered orally through pills or with nitrous oxide. Administering the sedative via the bloodstream produces faster and stronger results. The patient will remain conscious, aware of what is going on around them and able to answer the dentist’s questions, but will be fully relaxed.

Conscious sedation may be a choice for those who have dental anxiety or if they are worried about their reaction to implant surgery. Although most people may prefer to undergo surgery under general anesthesia, it is usually unnecessary. Local anesthesia, used with or without conscious sedation, is safe and does not usually result in unwanted side effects. The dentist can discuss the feasible sedation options with the patient.

In conclusion

Replacing missing teeth with dental implants is a popular choice, so do not allow a fear of surgery to deter you. Talk with the dentist about options available to stay calm and comfortable through the surgery. To learn more dental implant surgery and sedation dentistry, book an appointment with the dentist for a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://lincroftvillagedental.com or call Lincroft Village Dental Care at (732) 842-5005 for an appointment in our Lincroft office.

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