Would you be surprised to learn that an estimated 50% to 80% of people experience anxiety around dental appointments? It’s natural to feel nervous if you have an upcoming treatment, like a root canal or extraction, that has the potential to cause pain. However, many people are so afraid that they even avoid routine visits.
Your dentist can provide medication, like oral conscious sedation, to help you feel relaxed and comfortable, but many patients assume this is reserved for surgical procedures. Thankfully, that’s not necessarily true. Continue reading to learn more about this service and who can benefit from it!
What is Oral Conscious Sedation?
This type of sedation refers to a medication that’s prescribed, typically in pill form, with directions for you to take it before you arrive at your dentist’s office. That way, the effects of the drug will have kicked in by the time they begin your procedure. Popular options include benzodiazepines, like diazepam, midazolam, triazolam, and lorazepam, or other meds like ketamine or zaleplon.
If you’re afraid you’ll be “knocked out”, you can set your concerns aside. Most patients near Columbia experience a comfortable calm that might make them feel drowsy, but they can usually respond to questions or instructions from their provider. The effects are temporary and start wearing off after a couple of hours, but because they tend to linger somewhat, it’s best to have someone help drive you home after your appointment.
Who Benefits from Oral Conscious Sedation?
You might assume that this medication is only offered to those undergoing invasive or surgical treatments, but that’s fortunately not always the case! Your dentist might suggest oral conscious sedation if you:
- Experience severe anxiety. If you are shaking, sweating, feeling nauseated, or have a racing heart, your provider can ease your symptoms to help you through your appointment.
- Fear needles. Most providers inject a local anesthetic to numb your teeth before beginning a procedure, but might need to provide sedation instead if you resist it.
- Have sensitivity. This medication is an ideal way to reduce sensation in tender teeth or gums.
- Are allergic. If you don’t respond well to other drugs, like nitrous oxide, you might still benefit from oral conscious sedation.
- Struggle to sit still. If you are antsy or have mobility or cognitive challenges that make it hard to sit still or follow directions, your dentist might recommend medication to complete your treatment successfully.
If you’re still unsure whether you’re a good candidate for oral conscious sedation, consulting your dentist is the best way to find out!
About the Practice
At Beck Dental Care of Columbia, three dedicated dentists work collaboratively to provide a comprehensive menu of award-winning services to people of all ages. Whether you need preventive care for the family or require a more complex treatment, they can help. They take the time to get to know your unique concerns and goals and tailor treatment plans to help you meet them. Plus, they offer oral conscious sedation and other medications to help you feel comfortable and relaxed regardless of the reason for your visit. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (931) 388-8452.