Why Didn’t I Get Enough Sedation for Dental Implant Surgery?

Posted by AllSmiles

I was very nervous about having dental implant treatment and made that clear to the practice from the beginning. I was reassured that I would be sedated and would not be aware of the procedure. Unfortunately, I remember waking up during treatment and feeling considerable discomfort, which was upsetting given my anxiety about dental care.

Afterward, I noticed changes that concerned me. My upper teeth seemed to project farther forward than expected, and I now have difficulty keeping my lips together. I also experience increased saliva, especially at night, which affects my sleep.

Since the procedure, I have dealt with ongoing pain, persistent bad breath, and food becoming trapped around the implants. I returned to the office because something appeared to be sticking out of my gums. These issues have made recovery more difficult than I anticipated.

The treatment process is still ongoing, and I am concerned about the outcome. My wife and I have invested a substantial amount of money in this treatment. Too bad the doctor didn’t give me a complete explanation of what to expect before I made my decision. – Thanks. Titus from Indianapolis

Titus,

Although most patients respond well to sedation, some require more medication than expected. From your description, the sedation appears to have worked initially, but it may not have remained deep enough throughout the procedure.

The type of sedation matters. If you received IV sedation, the dentist could usually provide additional medication and increase the level of sedation quickly. If you received oral sedation, the situation becomes more complicated because additional medication may take considerable time to take effect.

What Happens If a Patient Under Sedation Becomes Uncomfortable?

Performing precise dental work becomes more difficult when a patient is uncomfortable or partially awake. Even small head movements can make treatment more challenging.

Experienced dentists often prioritize restoring the patient’s comfort before proceeding. When the sedation level is appropriate, patients tend to have a much better experience, and the dentist can perform treatment under more favorable conditions.

Chandler, Arizona, dentists Dr. William Walden and Dr. Tyrel Beavers sponsor this post. Read about their efforts to provide the best dental care in Chandler.