Plenty of people feel nervous when it comes to sitting in the dentist’s chair, but if you’re overly anxious, you might avoid scheduling appointments needed to help protect and preserve your smile.
Thankfully, many dentists in Willow Grove offer medications, such as oral conscious sedation, that can help patients feel calm and comfortable regardless of the reason for their visit. Although this service is considered safe for most people when administered by a licensed professional, that doesn’t necessarily mean everyone’s a good candidate. Continue reading to learn about who it can potentially benefit!
What is Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is prescribed to patients as a pill that they’re usually instructed to take prior to arriving for their dental appointment. This allows the medication, most commonly a benzodiazepine like Triazolam (Halcion), Diazepam (Valium), or Lorazepam (Ativan), to have kicked in by the time your dentist begins your procedure.
These drugs are known to induce a deep sense of relaxation that isn’t intended to render you unconscious, but you might feel so at ease that you inadvertently drift off during your treatment. Not only that, but you’re also less likely to remember the details of your appointment afterward, which is often considered another benefit of undergoing dental sedation.
Who Benefits from Oral Conscious Sedation?
You might assume that dental sedation is reserved for those undergoing lengthy or complex dental or surgical procedures, but that’s not always the case. Although these medications certainly are offered under such circumstances, there are other instances in which your dentist might recommend them, including to:
- Reduce symptoms of extreme anxiety, like sweating, palpitations, or an elevated heart rate.
- Help patients who are resistant or allergic to other anesthetics or sedation, like nitrous oxide (laughing gas).
- Improve comfort for those who struggle with sitting still for longer periods.
- Assist people with certain disabilities that can interfere with their ability to receive appropriate dental care.
Is Oral Conscious Sedation Right for Me?
It’s only natural to wonder if you might benefit from oral conscious sedation if you’re feeling nervous about an upcoming dental appointment. However, only your dentist can help determine whether you’re a good candidate for this service. They’ll need to update your medical history and list any current prescriptions or supplements that you take regularly to avoid doing anything that could adversely affect your general well-being.
If you’re unsure whether you would benefit from oral conscious sedation, you can find the answers you seek by contacting your provider!
About the Practice
At Advanced Smile Design, you and your loved ones benefit from a team of providers who are passionate about helping you build the healthiest, happiest versions of your smiles. Dr. Patel, Dr. Gandhi, and Dr. Gadde collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including oral conscious sedation, to meet even the most unique needs under one roof. Then, they combine their caring approach with state-of-the-art technology to deliver more comfortable, accurate treatment results. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (215) 659-3334.
