What is Oral Sedation Dentistry?

Are you one of the many people who break out into a cold sweat when you think about going to the dentist? It doesn’t matter if it’s a basic cleaning or a major tooth extraction; you’re a nervous wreck the whole time. A lot of people feel this way, and unfortunately, many will skip a necessary appointment out of fear. You don’t have to stay away from the dentist or live in fear of a procedure. Sedation may be exactly what you need to help you get through your next visit.

What is Oral Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Oral sedation is one of the available methods of conscious sedation dentistry, along with inhalation sedation – nitrous oxide and conscious IV sedation. In most cases, the medication is a tiny blue pill that you take prior to your appointment with the dentist. The pill allows for moderate sedation, meaning you wake up feeling refreshed after your procedure with a beautiful and healthy smile.

Who Is a Candidate for Oral Sedation Dentistry?

• You’re afraid of dentists
• The procedure is a big one that you want to get done at once, instead of in smaller, more frequent procedures over time
• You are scared of dental instruments
• You are very sensitive to pain
• You have anxiety issues
• You are going to have an invasive surgery

Who Can Perform Oral Sedation Dentistry?

Almost every dentist uses minimal sedation but it takes a certified specialist to administer Oral sedation to patients. As oral sedation is a more complicated one, dentists must undergo a program in deep sedation to provide it to patients. Our team at Pinnacle Dental is well qualified to do oral sedation dentistry.

What Are the Benefits Versus the Risks?

Advantages

• Easy to administer
• No needles
• Safe
• Responsive: Although you may feel drowsy with pill, you’ll still be awake and responsive. You’ll be able to listen and respond to your dentist’s instructions.

Risks

• It’s not immediately effective as the pill takes time to kick in
• Sedation level is not easily changed
• Can’t drive to appointment