Let’s face it, many people are quite apprehensive when it comes to visiting the dentist! Regardless of the possible reasons, millions simply avoid visiting the dentist at all; thus neglecting their oral care and overall health. With the development of sedation dentistry, the anxiety that typically accompanies dental care can be a thing of the past. Using conscious sedation, dentists can create in their patients a calm state throughout dental procedures and even regular checkups if necessary. Sedation dentistry is performed by highly trained professionals who can work with their patients to determine the amount of sedation required to establish the calm and anxiety-free state of mind.

In the past, there was only one way to sedate patients, which is the use of an IV. Because of the difficulty of the method, most patients were not offered sedation and had to simply face their fears during dental visits. Today, however, there are new and improved ways to make it through everything from routine cleanings to complex dental procedures. Although IV sedation is still used, it may typically be reserved for oral surgery offices.

Oral sedation is now most commonly used in offices where patients require a bit of help relaxing. Oral sedation dentists are trained to determine which sedation medication may be most suitable for a patient, as every patient is not the same. Your dentist will discuss your options with you and administer the most effective sedation medication based on your personal preferences and situation.

During a visit with a sedation dentist, a patient will likely be administered a pill form of medication which will produce deep relaxation. Your dentist and staff will monitor your relaxed state and will not begin dental work until you are comfortable. Many patients do actually fall asleep with oral sedation. However, this form typically allows for mild to moderate sedation in which a patient is still conscious and aware of their surroundings. They simply lose their anxiety. To some, time may go by very quickly and some patients may have no memory of their dental visit at all.

While oral sedation may decrease the pain a patient will feel, dentists typically still use oral anesthetic to numb the area of the mouth receiving treatment. Talk to your dentist if you feel sedation dentistry is right for you.


Oral Sedation Dentistry Waterford - Oral sedation dentistry Waterford helps you get the care you need