Oral Sedation Dentistry

Oral sedation is commonly used by dentists to help patients remain calm while they are having a dental procedure performed. Oral sedation is one of three types of sedation dentistry marin county methods, the other two being nitrous oxide and IV sedation. Unlike nitrous oxide and IV sedation, which are administered at the beginning of the procedure, oral sedation is typically taken approximately 1 hour prior to the appointment. Some of the most common oral sedatives that are prescribed are Xanax, Halcion, or Valium, all of which are Benzodiazepines, which effectively subdue areas of the brain that control anxiety and fear, resulting in patients experiencing a calmer and more relaxed mood. This not only improves the patient’s experience, but also improves your dentist’s ability to effectively and efficiently perform procedures.

What are the Advantages of Oral Sedation?

There are a range of advantages to oral sedation compared to other types of sedation, which include the following:

• Easy administration that eliminates the use of needles: One of the biggest benefits of oral sedation is that it is noninvasive and easy to take. Patients who have extreme dental phobia will also benefit from taking the pill prior to their appointment, which means they will begin the procedure in a more relaxed state. Oral sedation is also an ideal solution for patients who have a fear of needles.
• Safe: All oral sedatives provided by dentists have been approved by the FDA, so the chance of patients experiencing side effects is very low.
• Responsive (milder doses): Patients who receive a milder oral sedative will remain responsive and awake during their procedure, which will allow them to communicate with the dentist and respond to instructions if necessary.
• Amnesia (stronger doses): Stronger oral sedatives will result in patients experiencing amnesia and recalling very little of the procedure. This is an ideal solution for patients who experience extreme anxiety with having dental procedures performed.

What are the Disadvantages of Oral Sedation?

Although oral sedation has a range of unique benefits, there are several drawbacks, which include the following:

• Slower to activate: Unlike nitrous oxide or IV sedation, whose sedative effects begin to work very quickly, oral sedation will take longer to activate, which is why patients take the pill an hour or so prior to their appointment.
• Transportation issues: Because oral sedation can make patients groggy, you will need someone to drive you to and from your dental appointment.

If you have any additional questions or concerns about the benefits or drawbacks of oral sedation, or are wondering if oral sedation is right for you, contact your local dentist or periodontist, who will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

More information on Sedation Dentistry : Sedation Dentistry FAQ