Dental Health Topics

Oral Conscious Sedation

A visit to the dentist can cause fear and anxiety. Patients who experience dental phobia may postpone or avoid vital dental appointment, and multiple dental visits are out of the question. Neglecting your oral health can lead to tooth loss, disease and overall health problems. However, you can overcome dental fear with oral conscious sedation.

What is oral conscious sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is the use of oral medication in combination with nitrous oxide to achieve an appropriate level of relaxation so that you can calmly receive the dental care you need. Most states require board-certification, which involves additional training in dosage, monitoring and safety. The entire process is simple and comfortable.

Your doctor will advise you as to when you should take the medication (usually the night before your dental appointment). Accompanied by a responsible friend or family member, you’ll arrive at the dentist’s office more rested and relaxed. If needed, nitrous oxide will be given to further relax you during the appointment, and an experienced sedation dentistry team will monitor your vital signs during the procedure. Your friend or family member will accompany you home once your dental work is complete. The effects of the sedative should subside by the following day. It is wise to have a friend or relative stay with you until the medication wears off.

Although your dental procedures may take hours, you may feel as if they take only minutes. Some patients become so relaxed that they fall asleep in the dentist’s chair. Sedation medications have an amnesic effect, so you’ll have few, if any, memories of the visit.

Who should consider oral conscious sedation?
You may want to consider oral sedation if:
  • You are fearful or anxious of dental treatment and dental instruments
  • Local anesthetics do not have a numbing effect on you
  • You have a sensitive gag reflex
  • You suffer from any health issues, such as neck or back pain, which could lead to discomfort while sitting in a dentist’s chair
Oral conscious sedation can give you the peace of mind you need in order to undergo dental work. You may enjoy better overall health, an improved self-image and better quality of life with a healthy, beautiful smile.