If getting the dental treatment that you need feels overwhelming or daunting, our Toluca Lake dentists are here to help you. In this article, we’re going to be talking about oral conscious sedation—how it is used, and by whom. We hope that this information helps you assess whether oral conscious sedation may be appropriate for you.
What is it?
Oral conscious sedation is a treatment used in dentistry to make the patient feel calm, confident, and untroubled. This is a needle-free sedation option; patient simply need to take a small pill about an hour before their appointment is set to begin.
How does it work?
Oral conscious sedation medications slow down brain activity by affecting neurotransmitters. They specifically alter activity in the limbic system and hypothalamus. As these areas of the brain are slowed and inhibited, the patient begins to feel calmed.
What does it feel like to use oral conscious sedation?
After you take your dentist-prescribed pill, you’ll start to relax and feel untroubled. Although you will need someone to get you to and from the dentist’s office, you will never be rendered unconscious.
How does oral conscious sedation wear off?
The effects of oral conscious sedation will wear off naturally post-appointment. The process occurs as the sedative works its way through your system. Keep in mind that because oral conscious sedation medications have amnesic effects, you likely will not remember the treatment process once the sedative wears off.
Who uses oral conscious sedation?
This versatile sedation is often employed by dental patients who:
- Suffer from dental anxiety: oral conscious sedation helps anxious patients get into the dentist’s chair so that they can get the treatments they need
- Are prone to dental pain and sensitivity: sedation dentistry keeps the patient comfortable throughout the treatment process
- Are undergoing multi-phased treatment: because sedation prevents patients from becoming as easily fatigued during treatment, our team is able to get more done in fewer appointments
To get more information about sedation treatment works, give our dental team a call. Our Toluca Lake sedation dentists can help you determine whether oral conscious sedation can meet your needs!