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Sedation Dentistry in Hampshire: What to Expect
Sedation dentistry, often referred to as "sleep" dentistry, is an approach to dental care that uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Whether you suffer from dental anxiety or require a complex dental procedure, sedation dentistry offers a comfortable and stress-free solution. In this article, we will explore what to expect from sedation dentistry in Hampshire.

Firstly, it is important to note that there are different levels of sedation dentistry offered in Hampshire. These range from minimal sedation, where you are awake but relaxed; to general anaesthesia, where you are completely unconscious. The level of sedation used typically depends on the nature of the dental procedure being performed, and the level of patient anxiety.

When you opt for sedation dentistry in Hampshire, your dentist will have a preparatory discussion with you. During this discussion, they will explain the process, the types of dentist hampshire sedation available and their recommendation based on your individual treatment plan. They'll ask about your medical history and any medications you're currently taking to ensure sedation is safe for you. The aim here is to make you fully aware of the process and help you feel more comfortable.

The next step is the procedure itself. With sedation dentistry, medication is administered before your dental procedure to create an increased state of relaxation. This can be administered in several ways - orally, through inhalation, or via an intravenous (IV) line.

For oral sedation, you'll take a pill about an hour before your procedure, causing you to feel drowsy but you'll remain awake. With inhalation sedation, you breathe nitrous oxide, or "laughing gas", combined with oxygen through a mask that's placed over your nose. The gas helps you relax and its effects wear off quickly, which makes it the only form of sedation where you may be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. IV sedation offers a deeper level of relaxation and its effects are immediate.

Regardless of the type of sedation, you can expect your dentist to monitor your vital signs during the procedure to ensure everything is as it should be. A local anaesthetic may still be used in your mouth, even if you have had sedation, to ensure that the procedure is pain-free.

Post-procedure, your dentist in Hampshire will provide you with after-care instructions. It's usually recommended that you have someone drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours as you may feel drowsy or light-headed as the sedation wears off. It's also recommended to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day.

In conclusion, sedation dentistry in Hampshire offers a way for patients to have a stress-free and comfortable dental experience. The process is safe, highly effective, and carried out by trained professionals who prioritise patient comfort and care. If you've been avoiding the dentist due to fear or anxiety, sedation dentistry could be the solution you've been looking for. As always, don't hesitate to reach out to your local Hampshire dentist to discuss your options and decide what's best for you.