Going to the dentist can be extremely stressful for some people. One of the biggest fears people experience is the pain that could appear while getting your most needed procedures. The good news is that in these modern times, dental pain is not a common experience anymore.
There are several types of sedation that can help you feel perfectly comfortable and relaxed during your appointment. This is especially great news for patients who suffer from dental anxiety or even phobias, which prevent them from getting the essential dental treatments they truly need.
One example of sedation is called oral conscious sedation, and here’s everything you need to know about it.
Oral conscious sedation uses a combination of medication and nitrous oxide to help patients stay relaxed and calm during their dental procedures. While you remain awake during the procedure, some patients can become so relaxed that they fall asleep. However, even if you do fall asleep, you can be easily awakened, and will be able to respond to your dentist if need be.
Your dentist will recommend oral conscious sedation for lengthier procedures where you need to remain still and allow them to work. They’ll also advise you to come accompanied by a friend or family member to take you home after the procedure, as it can take a while for this type of sedation to wear off, so you should not drive right after or operate any tools or machinery.
Oral conscious sedation is perfectly safe, and you will be monitored throughout the procedure to make sure everything is going to plan. In general, dentists will make sedation recommendations based on the medical profile of the patient to ensure the very best results.
The dentist can recommend oral conscious sedation if:
This depends on a variety of different factors, such as the procedure the dentist needs to perform and even your medical history. In any case, your process of improving your dental health will start with the initial consultation, during which your dentist will discuss all your options with you, including sedation.
Take this time to talk openly with your dentist about your concerns, to ensure you will be getting the very best treatment process to restore the health of your teeth!
If you struggle with dental anxiety and are interested in oral conscious sedation, The Burkitt Center For Comprehensive Dentistry is here to help.
Schedule your consultation to find out more about our sedation options.