“I don’t want to be unconscious, but I’d just like my brain to turn off my fears for a little while.” That’s how one patient described her feelings before a major dental procedure, and it’s why she chose oral sedation. She’s not alone. The fact is, oral sedation dentistry is now the most common technique used in the United States to suppress patient fears.
How Does Oral Sedation Work?
Oral sedation is a form of conscious sedation that uses a specific type of medication, in tablet form, to deeply relax a patient. The technique is easy and requires no needles. One type of oral medication used in conscious sedation dentistry is called Benzodiazepine. This sedative works by toning down the areas of the brain responsible for fear.
What’s the Oral Sedation Experience Like?
With oral sedation, the patient maintains a level of consciousness but increased calmness. This allows for added safety and cooperation. Best of all, this medication not only has a sedation effect but also an amnesic effect on most. Many patients report that they do not remember the visit, or they say they feel like they slept through the treatment.
Who Can Use Conscious Sedation?
Many healthy adults are good candidates for it. It’s often preferred by people who need stronger sedation than just nitrous oxide, but prefer not to have IV Sedation or general anesthesia.
What are the Benefits of Oral Sedation?
- It’s very effective for mild to moderate anxiety.
- It’s safe and easy.
- A patient can breathe and speak on his/her own.
- Since patients remember little about the actual visit, it helps reduce future dental anxiety.
- Patients are less aware of the length of time a dental procedure or group of procedures occurs.
Whether you’re worried about going to the dentist or just too busy for multiple visits, oral sedation can be a great solution for getting all your dental work done during one visit.
Our Excellent Team Can Make Your Experience Pain-Free
We have a great team with the specialized skills to make your experience comfortable and stress-free. In fact, we’ve updated the “Meet Our Staff” page on our website with new photos and bios, so you can learn more about our excellent team there!
Dr. Futerman and Dr. Phillips
Left to right: Sarah, Len, Rachel, Cindy
