If dental visits make you anxious, you have probably wondered about sedation. At Desert Dental Alternatives we offer one kind: oral conscious sedation. Here is exactly what that means, so you can decide whether it is right for you.
What it is
Oral conscious sedation is a prescribed pill you take before your appointment. It helps you feel calm and relaxed during treatment. You stay awake enough to respond and follow simple instructions, but many people feel drowsy and remember little of the visit afterward. Numbing medicine still handles the pain; the sedation handles the nerves.
What we do not offer
We do not offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or IV sedation. If you have had either of those at another office, tell us, and we will talk about whether oral sedation will work for what you need.
Who it helps
- People with dental anxiety or a bad past experience
- Longer visits, such as implant surgery or parts of a full-mouth reconstruction
- People with a strong gag reflex
- Anyone who has been putting off care because of nerves
How the day goes
- Before the day. Your dentist reviews your medical history and every medication and supplement you take, and decides whether sedation is safe for you.
- Before your appointment. You take the pill as directed. A responsible adult drives you to the office.
- During treatment. You relax in the chair. There are TVs on the ceiling if you want something to watch.
- Going home. Your driver takes you home, and you plan to rest for the rest of the day.
The ride home is not optional
With oral sedation, you cannot drive yourself home or go back to work. Please arrange a responsible adult to bring you, pick you up, and stay with you for a while afterward. Please have your ride confirmed before the day of your visit.
Not ready for sedation?
Many anxious patients do well without it. You can ask for a quiet appointment, agree on a hand signal to take a break whenever you need one, and have your dentist explain each step before it happens.
Call (760) 324-4450 and tell the front desk you are nervous. We will plan around it. You can also read more about sedation and dental anxiety care.