In dentistry, pain management is a vital part of the patient’s treatment. Pain management has been proven to help patients heal faster and reduce their chances of developing dental anxiety. For more information on pain management in dentistry, read on.
Pain Management
Anesthesia and pain management are both important components. Pain management, according to Dr. William Siefert, can be used to treat acute or chronic pain, as well as in conjunction with other therapies such as physical therapy or surgery. Options for pain control include:
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
• Opioids
Anesthesia
Anesthesia is the use of drugs to block pain. It is used in many surgical procedures and can also be used for other types of medical procedures that cause pain, such as root canals. Anesthesiologists are highly trained physicians who specialize in administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during surgery or other medical procedures that require sedation or general anesthesia.
Epidural
The epidural space is at the bottom of your spinal nerve. It’s a place where an epidural catheter and local anesthetic drugs are kept. The catheter is inserted into this space to allow medicines to be delivered straight to your spinal nerves. Epidural anesthesia is used during childbirth as well as other kinds of surgery that require lower amounts of pain relief while you are awake, such as knee replacement surgery or cesarean section delivery.
Dr. William Siefert Epidural anesthesia can be used alone or in conjunction with other types of anesthesia such as general anesthesia or conscious sedation, also known as twilight slumber. There will be no IV line put in advance if you are having an epidural injection alone; however, if both are being used concurrently, one will already be present before administering any additional drugs through it.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is a safe, effective way to reduce anxiety and pain during dental treatment. Sedation dentistry can be used in many circumstances, including:
• If you have an extreme fear of the dentist.
• If you need extensive or complicated treatments that require more time than usual to complete.
• If you have been diagnosed with a medical condition that would make it difficult for you to sit still in the dental chair for long periods without becoming uncomfortable or agitated.
