Dental-related fear is one of the most common anxieties experienced by people of all ages. In our Sherwood OR office, we see no benefit in denying this or trying to talk patients out of their apprehension. Our job is to make sure those who choose our dental office receive the care they need to maintain oral health. In situations where dental anxiety has been an obstacle for a patient, the best option for comfort may be to administer oral conscious sedation for more extensive dental work (or for that filling, if you so choose).
Oral conscious sedation is
- Patients who receive oral conscious sedation can rest calmly and safely throughout a small or extensive procedure without the risks of general anesthesia. General anesthesia is what surgeons use, a sedation technique that requires breathing assistance for the patient. Under oral conscious sedation, patients breathe and swallow on their own. Some patients doze off while others remain awake but completely comfortable.
- Oral conscious sedation is excellent for patients who are needle-phobic and who may want to begin their sedative the night before their dental appointment.
- Patients appreciate that oral conscious sedation allows them to sit comfortably while their dental needs are managed. As a result of consistent care using sedation, oral health can improve significantly.
What to Expect with Oral Conscious Sedation
Depending on the severity of dental anxiety, an oral sedative may be taken as early as the night before a dental appointment. In many cases, we administer sedation right here in the office as soon as you arrive. It takes only a few minutes for the sedative to begin relaxing the central nervous system. By the time dental treatment begins, you should feel nicely drowsy, but you could respond to our team if necessary. During your dental treatment, we will monitor your vital signs and ensure your comfort by using a local anesthetic to numb the nerves around teeth. At no time will you be unconscious, but you might slip in and out of sleep.
After treatment is complete, your pre-arranged escort (friend or family member) will drive you home where we encourage you to rest. Sedation may take up to eight hours to wear off.
Schedule a Consultation
Sedation dentistry is simple, safe, and convenient. Best of all, it can help you actually look forward to seeing us! For more information, contact our office today at (503) 925-9595 to schedule a consultation.
