Ensuring that you feel comfortable with your dental treatment is the goal of our dedicated dental team. That is why we are constantly striving for improvement, to become the dentists you look forward to meeting and receiving treatment from.
That is why we have created this frequently asked question section about one of our more popular treatment options: oral conscious sedation.
Why Would I Need Sedation Dentistry?
For the millions suffering from dental anxiety or dental phobia, sedation dentistry is a blessing. These techniques help relax both body and mind, and in the case of oral sedation dentistry, can allow a patient to become relaxed before arriving at their dentist’s office.
If you’re suffering from dental anxiety, you’re not alone. According to the US National Library of Medicine, one study found that 36% of the American population suffers from dental anxiety, which is loosely defined as increased stress when concerning dental work.
You can combat your dental anxiety by taking advantage of sedation dentistry. Find out how by contacting us today!
If I Don’t Have Dental Anxiety, Is Sedation Dentistry Still an Option?
The short answer is yes. The longer answer would most likely be discussed between you and your dentist during a consultation relating to whichever oral care treatment you may be planning. After all, we aim to make every patient’s experience as comfortable as possible. So consider bringing up sedation dentistry in your consultation if any of the following apply:
- You experience increased stress due to medical procedures (not necessarily dental-related).
- You suffer from a fear of needles.
- You have concerns about pain management and anesthetics.
- You find it difficult to sit for extended periods.
- You are considering a lengthy procedure or restorative dentistry treatment.
- You have a low tolerance for local anesthetics.
- You have a sensitive gag reflex, making dentistry treatment difficult.
- You feel uncomfortable in medical areas.
What If I Find Masks Uncomfortable?
That is one of the brilliant advantages of oral conscious sedation: you don’t need to worry about masks or any other kind of equipment being used for sedation during your dental procedure. Oral conscious sedation involves a pill, usually taken an hour before your treatment. It is as simple as that!
How Long Does Sedation Usually Last?
During your consultation on your dental procedure, a time frame will be worked out of how long your treatment will last. Depending on this time frame, the length of sedation techniques will also be taken into account. For oral conscious sedation, you will take the prescribed pill an hour before treatment. The effects of the pill will last several hours afterward.
Please note that this will mean you need to arrange for transportation to and from your dentist appointment!
Is Sedation Dentistry Meant To Replace Pain Management?
No. Any dental treatment you receive that requires something for pain management will already have anesthesia accounted for in the procedure. Local anesthesia, such as numbing agents, are the primary means of pain management. Sedation dentistry’s primary function is to help you relax and have a much more comfortable experience.
What Can I Expect With Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is safe and effective with minimal side effects. Patients who use laughing gas may feel a slight sensation of euphoria while the gas is in their system, but this fades quickly once the apparatus is removed.
Oral conscious sedation is meant to deal with more extreme levels of stress and even dental phobia, so it tends to be more potent. Despite its potency, the side effects are minimal:
- Drowsiness: You will feel relaxed when taking the pill and this can lead to a groggy or feeling the need to sleep.
- Dry Mouth: Hydration before your procedure can be important, especially if you’ve selected oral conscious sedation. The pill can cause some patients to feel thirsty.
- Disorientation After the Treatment: When the sedation begins to wear off, some patients have reported feeling somewhat disorientated.
- No Memory of Procedure: For many patients, the slight amnesiac effect of oral sedation is appealing.
- Comfort With Dentistry: Sedation dentistry makes patients more comfortable in dental offices, even if they usually get nervous.
Contact Us for More Information About Sedation Dentistry
For residents of Tacoma, Petrie Advanced Dental has been setting the dental standard for over ten years. We accomplish this by being professional, compassionate, and approachable, creating a conversation about your dental health.
If you have further questions relating to sedation dentistry or are considering a consultation for one of our treatments, don’t hesitate to contact us by phone at (253) 761-5422!
