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Sedation dentistry refers to either conscious or unconscious sedation. In unconscious sedation dentistry, the dentist uses sedative medication to keep a patient relaxed and comfortable in the dentist’s chair for the procedure. In unconscious sedation, the patient is unconscious in the dentist’s chair throughout the procedure. Not every dentist offers sedation dentistry options, only someone trained in sedation dentistry can or a sedation dentist.

Let’s talk about sedation dentists or those who can perform conscious and unconscious sedation and where you can find the best sedation dentist in Plantation, FL.

How Does a Dentist Become a Sedation Dentist?

There are educational and equipment requirements a dentist has to meet, to be able to practice sedation dentistry, which includes sedation dentistry courses and additional hours of classroom and hands-on training done under the supervision of board-certified anesthesiologists.

Sedation dentistry that goes beyond the use of traditional laughing gas and oral medication (which only achieve minimal sedation) involves certain techniques and the use of specialized equipment. To achieve moderate and deep sedation, the dentist uses either intravenous (IV) sedation or anesthesia, both of which require certification, re-certification, and licensure to be able to administer them.

Even other members of the dental team who will assist in the treatment of the patient will also need to be specially trained in some aspects of sedation dentistry.

To become certified to practice sedation dentistry, the dentist will need to study the following:

• Sedation pharmacology
• Pre-screening selection and patient physiology
• Proper dosing and techniques
• How to apply proper emergency response
• Airway management and monitoring
• Sedation billing and documentation
• Proper office setup
• Take part in live and simulated sedation cases

Members of the dental team will need to train in providing support and reassurance to patients, infection control, as well as the preparation and maintenance of clinical equipment.

Not many dentists are certified and licensed in sedation dentistry. You must look this information up or ask the dental clinic directly if the dentist has the requirements for sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry can be used in dental procedures ranging from simple teeth cleanings to more complex treatments like root canals or wisdom tooth extractions. Special consideration is placed on the patient’s anxiety level or dental phobia. Your sedation dentist will discuss what is best and safe for you.

Sedation Dentist in Plantation, FL

If you are looking for a sedation dentist in Plantation, you have come to the right place. Dr. Ernie Soto is certified in both nitrous oxide and IV sedation and is one of the very few dentists in the State of Florida LICENSED to administer anesthesia. Dr. Soto understands the importance of having a patient’s state of mind being calm and relaxed before starting any dental procedure, which is why he undertook additional training and also secured certification and a license to be able to offer our patients more in the way of a positive, stress-free experience in our clinic.

For any questions or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Soto, call our dental clinic in Plantation today at (954) 368-6264 or use our convenient online request form.