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Sedation dentistry is a standard option that helps patients feel calm, relaxed, and at ease during dental procedures. The type of sedation varies according to the patient and their needs. Talk to your dentist about which sedation dentistry option is best for you.  

When Do You Need Sedation Dentistry?  

People of all ages can benefit from sedation dentistry, including children. At LP Dentist and Cosmetic, your dentist might recommend this option for those patients with dental anxiety, fear of visiting the dentist, needles, and extreme teeth sensitivity.   

Advantages and Disadvantages of Oral Sedation  

Oral sedation is typically taken in pill form and is meant to relax you while keeping you conscious. In this case, the patients take the sedative at least one hour before the appointment. The result is a patient that feels relaxed and calm, a bit sleepy, but still able to communicate with your dentist.  

Advantages of Oral Sedation

Easy to Use

This method is extremely easy to administer. Your dentist will prescribe a pill and ask you to take it about an hour before the procedure. Once it makes its way into your system, you should begin to relax and feel much more comfortable.  

No Needles

Fear of needles is very common. Thankfully, this method doesn´t require the use of needles, which it is perfect for patients who either don’t like needles or have small veins that are difficult to see from the surface.   

Keeps You Calm and Cool

Oral sedation can help get ride of anxiety and make it easier for your dentist to work on your teeth.  If you need a dental procedure and suffer from anxiety, especially if it’s caused by dental work, you are a good candidate for sedation dentistry 

Amnesia

Benzodiazepine is a depressant that lowers brain activity. This makes it the perfect solution for relieving stress and anxiety. Furthermore, this also means that the drug could cause you to lose memory of the entire procedure.  

Safe

The oral sedatives used by dentists are all regulated by the FDA, so you are unlikely to experience any dangerous side effects. Be honest with your dentist about any sensitivities to drugs before getting started and they will ensure the safest option.   

Responsive

Although you may feel tired with pill sedation, you’ll still be awake and responsive enough to hear and react to your dentist’s instructions. Many patients will even bring music with them to the office so they can further relax.  

Disadvantages of Oral Sedation

Not Instantly Effective

Oral sedation won’t typically kick in immediately. Your dentist may advise you to take it one hour in advance to allow the sedative plenty of time to take full effect  

Sedation Level Cannot be Easily Modified

Due to this method’s extended release, dosing can become difficult. It may take longer for some to feel the full effects, while others may feel it sooner and require less of the sedative.   

Need Someone to Accompany You

You may feel a bit foggy after the procedure is completed. To make sure you can make it home safely, bring a friend or family member with you.  

Ask About Sedation Dentistry and Feel Confident Through the Procedure

Anxiety shouldn’t keep you from receiving the quality dental care you deserve. Talk to your dentist and find a sedation dentistry option that works for you. Make your appointment today at LP Dental and Cosmetic.