While some people find visiting the dentist to be relaxing, there are others that deal with high anxiety when they are facing a potential dental appointment. Today, our dentists discuss how dental sedation is a safe and reliable way to have your dental visits completed in a stress-free manner.
What is dental sedation and how can it help?
Dental sedation uses medication, typically delivered orally or through an inhalent, to help make patients more comfortable before, during, and after dental treatment. Besides anxious patients, dental sedation may be recommended for patients that need complex treatment or who have a severe gag reflex.
Dental sedation allows our dentists to offer a lower-stress appointment so our patients can receive the critical oral health care they need to keep their mouths healthy.
What are the different options for dental sedation?
At Guildford Dental we offer oral sedation. Oral sedation is a sedative that is administered in the form of a liquid or pill. These medications can be taken the night before an appointment to help you sleep, and/or one hour before your appointment to reduce anxiety leading up to and during treatment.
During your treatment, you will remain awake and responsive, and you won't feel any pain.
Is dental sedation safe to use for routine visits?
Dental sedation is generally safe for most patients. Prior to prescribing the sedative, your dentist will review your medical history and discuss whether dental sedation is the right option for your situation.
While at our office, you will be closely monitored for any negative side effects from the sedation. It is normal to feel drowsy following your appointment but this feeling will wear off as the day progresses.
It is important to set up a friend or family member to help with bringing you to and from your appointment as you should never drive after receiving dental sedation.