According to a 2017 study, an estimated 19 percent of adults suffer from moderate to high dental anxiety. For some people, this can make getting routine dental care nearly impossible. The good news is that your dentist has a solution that can help keep you feeling calm and comfortable enough to undergo any type of treatment. It’s called oral conscious sedation, and it can do wonders for your mind and your mouth. Here’s how.
What is Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is designed to make you feel calm and comfortable during your dental treatment. To receive it, you simply need to take a pill prescribed by your dentist prior to or at your dental appointment. There are different levels of sedation depending on your unique needs. In most cases, your sedative will allow you to remain awake but groggy. You may even be able to fall asleep; however, you will still be able to wake with a gentle shake and should be able to respond to both physical and verbal stimuli.
Who is a Good Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?
While not everyone is a good candidate for oral conscious sedation, you may qualify for this treatment if:
- You’re extremely afraid of the dentist and suffer from symptoms like nausea, shaking, numbness, palpitations, racing heart, and sweating when you think about or visit the dentist.
- You are afraid of needles that may be necessary for treatment.
- You have extreme sensitivity in your teeth and gums.
- You have a physical disability that makes it difficult to keep your mouth open or sit still for long durations.
- You have a cognitive disability that could make it difficult to follow instructions during treatment.
- You have a strong gag reflex.
- You have difficulty getting numb.
If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of oral conscious sedation and would like to be considered for treatment, be sure to speak to your dentist prior to your upcoming appointment so you have time to pick up your sedative from your preferred pharmacy.
Be aware that if you do choose to try this option that you’ll need a ride home from your dental appointment with a trusted friend or family member (no cabs, public transportation or rideshares), as you will be unable to drive or operate heavy machinery for the rest of the day. Furthermore, you should plan on taking the rest of the day off from work, school, or any other activity so you can give your body time to recuperate and the sedative to completely wear off.
Remember, you don’t need to let moderate to severe dental anxiety or phobia prevent you from getting the care you need. Oral conscious sedation is an excellent option for patients who suffer from a variety of side-effects that could make it difficult to receive treatment. To see if you’re a good candidate, speak to your dentist today!
About Dr. Scott
Thus far in his amazing career, Dr. Paul Scott has performed over 35,000 root canals and counting! A graduate of Northwestern University Dental School, he also served in the United States Navy and earned his Certification in Endodontics and Master of Science degree from Northwestern University. He was also a Clinical Assistant Professor at Northwestern Dental School. If you suffer from dental anxiety, you’re in excellent hands at Associated Endodontists of Melbourne. To schedule an appointment with us, please visit our website or call us today at 321-722-0550.