When you think of oral sedation dentistry, you may immediately associate it with patients who have a hard time sitting calmly through a dental appointment due to fear or anxiety. While this is certainly a practical use of this treatment, it is not the only way it is employed to help make dental care smooth and effective. Here are a few reasons your dentist may suggest oral sedation treatments other than reducing stress associated with the dental office.
What Is Oral Sedation Dentistry?
Oral sedation dentistry is a form of dental sedation that involves your dentist prescribing a pill to be taken shortly before you show up for your appointment. The effects will set in soon, leaving you in a relaxed state that still allows you to answer questions and respond to direction. However, the side effects of drowsiness and disorientation take a few hours to wear off completely, so you’ll need someone to give you a ride to and from the office.
Why Would Oral Sedation Be Recommended if I Don’t Have Dental Anxiety?
While oral sedation can be a great way to help a nervous patient sit through their appointment, it also has other uses. Some patients have strong gag reflexes that make it difficult for them to have a dentist working in their mouths without recoiling, and oral conscious sedation can help these individuals enjoy a smoother dental experience. If a patient has difficulty sitting comfortably for long periods but is having a procedure that is going to take a long time, oral sedation may be able to help them relax and sit still during an endodontic procedure or other dental treatment.
How Safe Is Oral Sedation Dentistry?
As long as the treatment is administered by a trained professional, oral sedation is safe and involves minimal side effects. After you begin feeling the effects of the treatment, the dental staff will monitor you to ensure that you are safe and that nothing unexpected happens. You can expect a quick recovery time of no more than several hours, and you should feel good as new after a good night’s rest.
Oral sedation can allow a patient to enjoy a smoother and more comfortable visit with their dentist. Consulting with your dental provider can help determine if you can be a good candidate for this treatment.
About the Practice
Parkway Endodontics offers the finest endodontic services in Lorain and Middleburg Heights, OH. Led by Drs. Peyman Vaziri and Rachel James, the staff goes to great lengths that patients enjoy comfortable and effective treatments. Areas of expertise include root canals, emergency dentistry, and oral sedation dentistry. To learn more about the benefits of oral sedation, contact the practice online.
