Does the thought of going to the dentist bring a chill down your spine or a sick feeling in the pit of your stomach? You’re not alone. In fact millions of people who are in desperate need of dental care forgo it altogether out of fear. You may be one of them. Sedation dentistry can help ease your mind.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses oral medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Unlike general anesthesia where the patient is unconscious, by using oral sedatives the patient is in a state of “near sleep” during the procedure, and is able to breathe on his own, as well as speak and respond to others. It is a great solution for patients who have a low threshold for pain, or need a large amount of dental work done.
A significant benefit of sedation dentistry is that the patient loses a sense of time, and procedures seem to last only a few minutes. And often the patient has no memory of the procedure, further reducing unnecessary stress and anxiety.
What You Should Know
It’s important that your dentist be trained and licensed to administer the sedation you are receiving. Before your procedure your dentist will conduct a thorough medical consultation to assure that you are a sedation candidate. You will need to complete a medical history. If you are an oral sedation candidate, you will be giving complete instructions for the night before your dental procedure and need to have someone take you to your appointment, stay in the office, and take you home. Dr. Earp and his assistant stay with you at all times during your treated with oral sedation. If you have more questions please contact our office at 919-832-2575.
Sedation Dentistry allows the patient to remain comfortable during treatment.
Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation