Sedation Dentistry – Dallas, GA
Sit Back & Relax At Your Next Appointment
Are you scared of visiting your dentist to receive treatments or for semi-annual checkups and cleanings? Unfortunately, dental phobias and other discomforts can dissuade patients from receiving the professional treatment they need, increasing their risk of developing oral health problems that require invasive and costly procedures. At Distinctive Dentistry, our experienced and compassionate team is committed to helping our patients feel comfortable and relaxed during their treatments. That’s why we’re proud to offer sedation dentistry in Dallas, GA! If you’re ready to sit back and relax at your next appointment, then give us a call today!
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Oral conscious sedation has been helping patients feel comfortable in the dental examination chair since the 1940s. Since then, this type of anti-anxiety medication has been tested, adjusted, and perfected to become the effective and reliable form of dental sedation that it is today.
When administered by a seasoned dentist like Dr. Bobby Shirley, Dr. Clay Cannon, or Dr. Jack Bickford, sedation dentistry is very safe. They will meet with you and review your full medical history to ensure that oral conscious sedation is the best way to help you feel comfortable during your appointment.
Stay Conscious Without the Stress
Oral conscious sedation, like other forms of sedation dentistry, will not “put you to sleep” or render you unconscious. However, most patients will feel as if they had slept through their appointment afterwards! This is because you are unlikely to remember anything about your appointment with sedation dentistry, and the medication will make you feel drowsy. Some patients are so comfortable that they end up dosing off during their treatment, but they can be easily awoken with a gentle nudge.
Keeping you semi-conscious throughout your treatment is far safer than using a heavier form of sedation or general anesthesia. You’ll enjoy all of the benefits of feeling as if you were asleep the entire time without the risks that come with being fully unconscious.
Oral Conscious Sedation
The form of sedation dentistry we offer here at distinctive dentistry is oral conscious sedation. This method involves taking a medication by mouth before your appointment. Gradually, you’ll begin to feel groggy and deeply relaxed. You’ll continue to feel this way throughout your appointment, and then you’ll need a trusted friend or family member to take you home. By the time you regain your normal level of alertness, you may feel as if you’ve slept through your entire treatment!
What Is Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is a mid-range form of dental sedation that is very popular. Like other forms of sedation dentistry, it will help you feel comfortable and relaxed during your treatment without actually making you unconscious. This makes it much safer than options like general anesthesia! You will remain conscious enough to respond to simple questions and basic instructions, but you will be completely oblivious to the sensations that would otherwise cause you to feel anxious or uncomfortable. You shouldn’t feel any type of discomfort with sedation dentistry, and you are unlikely to form any memories of your treatment.
How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Work?
If oral conscious sedation is a good choice for you, we’ll prescribe you a single dose of medication for you to take before your appointment. You’ll often take this pill or liquid before you arrive at our office, but in some cases, we may give it to you before your treatment begins. In either case, you will gradually begin to feel relaxed and mellow. Your limbs may feel heavy, and you may feel as if time has sped up. You may even fall asleep! But that’s alright; if needed, we’ll be able to awaken you with a gentle nudge.
Our experienced team will monitor you carefully throughout your appointment. Not only will you be able to feel comfortable in the dental chair for an extended period of time, but we’ll be able to complete your treatment faster than usual! Once your dental work is complete, you’ll need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home. You should plan on resting for the remainder of the day as the dental sedation wears off.
Are You a Good Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation can help a wide variety of patients, including those who:
However, oral conscious sedation may not be a good choice for you if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have obstructive sleep apnea, are experiencing nasal congestion, or have certain health issues. Your Dallas, GA dentist will meet with you ahead of time to review your medical history and ensure that oral conscious sedation is a safe and effective choice for you.
Is Sedation Dentistry Right for Me?
Oral conscious sedation is a safe and effective option for nearly any patient interested in it. However, it’s not a good choice for everyone! The only way to know for sure if sedation dentistry is right for you is to come see us for a consultation. We’ll help you discover the best way to feel relaxed and comfortable while getting the oral healthcare you deserve!
Oral Conscious Sedation FAQs
If your palms sweat when it’s time to visit the dentist, or you need a lengthy procedure, oral conscious sedation may be an option for you. There’s a lot of misinformation about dental sedatives, so it’s normal to have a few concerns. Don’t worry, your sedation dentist in Dallas at Distinctive Dentistry will explain everything during your initial consultation . While you wait for your appointment, here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Sedation dentistry is safe for most patients; however, your dental team will learn more about your medical history, including any medications you’re taking, to determine your risk of any adverse complications. Once you're sedated, your dentist and team will monitor your vitals at all times, including your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen level. Our team of dentists has undergone advanced training in dental sedation to safely administer the medications necessary to keep you comfortable.
Will I Remember Anything with Dental Sedation?
Although oral conscious sedation doesn’t “put you to sleep,” it’s not likely you’ll remember much of your procedure. The memory loss effects of sedation are a great benefit for patients who have anxiety or negative past dental experiences. This will make it easier to visit the dentist the next time because you won’t have any memory of your appointment.
How Long Does Oral Conscious Sedation Last?
The effects of oral conscious sedation can take several hours to dissipate, so you’ll need a friend or loved one to drive you home. You’ll be instructed to avoid driving or operating any heavy machinery for 24 hours. It’s best to rest and wait for the effects to wear off before resuming your regular activities.
Will I Feel Any Pain with Oral Conscious Sedation?
Although you’ll remain conscious during your procedure, dental sedation suppresses your body’s ability to register pain. In some cases, your dentist may also use a local numbing agent. As a result, you won’t feel any pain; however, you may experience some pressure, depending on your treatment. While you won’t feel anything during your appointment, your mouth may be sore after your procedure. You can manage any discomfort using an OTC pain reliever. Your dentist may also instruct you to eat soft foods until your pain improves.
Am I a Good Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?
If you have dental-related fears, need dental work, or have a lengthy treatment plan, you may benefit from sedation dentistry. Often, it’s recommended for patients who have a low pain tolerance, strong gag reflex, or difficulty sitting still. It can also benefit patients with jaw pain or difficulty holding their mouth open. Your dentist may also suggest it if you need multiple procedures. While it is safe for most patients, people with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications may not be suitable candidates. It also isn’t recommended for expectant mothers. Your dentist will carefully review your medical history and any medications you’re taking to ensure oral conscious sedation is the best choice for you.
