The advantages of oral conscious sedation
It can be difficult to gather the courage to see your dentist if you have dental phobia and anxiety. However, Dr. Neal Edwards and his team at Neal Edwards DDS in Riverside, California, understand that many patients of all ages may have a fear of the dentist that can keep them from getting essential dental work completed. With oral conscious sedation, he can help make it easier than ever to visit the dentist’s chair without anxiety!
What is oral conscious sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is a mild sedative administered to patients before their dental appointment, allowing them to remain calm and comfortable during the procedure. With this type of sedation, you will still be conscious throughout the entire appointment and can communicate with Dr. Neal Edwards as needed; however, you may experience some drowsiness while in the chair.
How does oral conscious sedation function?
To ensure your oral conscious sedation goes smoothly, Dr. Neal Edwards is specially trained in caring for patients under the magic of oral conscious sedation. A prescription pill is taken prior to the arrival at the office, at which the medication will typically be in full force. You will be completely relaxed by the time Dr. Neal Edwards gets started on your treatment. After the appointment, you return home to rest and often have little or no recollection of the appointment afterward.
Am I a proper candidate for oral conscious sedation?
If you are aware of your dental anxieties, do not hesitate to discuss your concerns with our dental team. We can determine if you are a good candidate for oral conscious sedation to make your dental chair experience positive!
How do I learn more about sedation dentistry?
Dr. Neal Edwards understands that dental phobias can keep patients from getting treatments for problems such as lost teeth, periodontal disease, or cavities.
If you live in Riverside, CA, or the cities of Corona, Lomo, Linda, Norco, or Moreno Valley, call the office at (951) 614-0033 to request an appointment.
The practice is located at 3731 Tibbetts Street, Suite 7, and is open to new patients.
FAQs
What is oral conscious sedation?
Our dedicated team aims to ensure your comfort during your treatment. Unfortunately, for the millions who suffer from dental anxiety, enjoying stress-free dental care may seem like a pipe dream. Good news! We offer sedation dentistry to ensure everyone, including dental-phobic patients, enjoys dentistry.Â
Oral conscious sedation is one of several types of dental sedation. It involves taking prescribed anti-anxiety medication like Valium or Halcion before your dental procedure to help you feel relaxed. You remain awake but in a deeply relaxed state.
How does oral sedation make me feel?
You may feel drowsy, calm, and less aware of your surroundings. Some patients may nap, but a little nudge is enough to awaken them. Many patients experience mild euphoria, and many have little to no memory of the procedure afterward. This means you won’t remember triggering smells, noises, and sights.Â
You may also experience a distorted sense of time. Many patients feel like the procedure lasted only minutes, even when it was longer. This sedation makes complex and lengthy treatments feel quick and effortless.
How long does the sedation last?
The anti-anxiety pills are taken about an hour before your treatment. The effects typically last a few hours after the procedure, so you’ll need someone to drive you home. Residual drowsiness may continue for the rest of the day. This means you should avoid driving, strenuous activities, and alcohol for about 24 hours after treatment.Â
Although oral sedation provides deeper relaxation than nitrous oxide, its side effects are minimal. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and feeling disoriented after treatment. These side effects only last a few hours and do not require intervention.Â
Does oral sedation dentistry replace anesthetics?
No! Any procedure requiring pain management will include anesthesia. Local anesthesia is the primary means of pain management. Sedation dentistry calms your nerves to keep you relaxed.
I don’t have dental anxiety. Is sedation dentistry still an option?
Yes! Although sedation dentistry is primarily used for patients with dental anxiety, it has other uses. Consider talking to us about sedation dentistry if any of the following apply.Â
- You cannot numb with anesthetics
- You have difficulty staying still for long periods
- You have a sensitive gag reflex
- You are considering a lengthy or complex procedure
- You have extremely sensitive teeth
- You have generalized anxiety disorder that isn’t dental-related
Is oral sedation safe?
Absolutely! However, it must be administered by a trained dental professional. Our dentist will review your medical history and monitor you during the procedure to ensure your safety. Additionally, pre-procedure instructions like fasting and pausing certain medications help minimize side effects.Â
Does my Riverside dentist offer sedation dentistry?
Neal Edward DDS has been setting the standard of dental care over the years. We accomplish this excellence by being compassionate, professional, trustworthy, and intentional with your comfort.Â
Do you have dental anxiety? Don’t hesitate to talk to our team about it. Call (951) 614-0033 and explore the possibility of relaxed dental care with oral conscious sedation.Â
