Sedation dentistry is a general term for several dental techniques. The purpose of sedation dentistry is to calm a patient and maximize their comfort during dental treatment.
Oral sedation dentistry is one approach a dentist might consider when a patient:
The following overview explains what oral sedation dentistry is and what benefits it offers to patients who may experience natural anxiety over receiving dental treatment. For more information about whether oral sedation is right for you, discuss the topic with your dentist.
What Does Oral Sedation Dentistry Involve?
Some patients mistakenly believe that sedation dentistry is the same as sleep dentistry. That’s not exactly the case.
As the name implies, sleep dentistry involves using general anesthesia to render a patient unconscious during a dental procedure. With sedation dentistry, a patient typically remains conscious, though their memories of a procedure may be hazy.
Oral sedation dentistry in particular involves supplying a patient with a relatively mild anti-anxiety pill. A patient can swallow this pill or allow it to dissolve beneath their tongue before a dentist and their team begin performing work.
Who is Oral Sedation Dentistry For?
Oral sedation dentistry is ideal for patients whose dental anxiety isn’t too extreme. If a patient experiences higher levels of dental anxiety, their dentist might consider other forms of sedation dentistry, such as nitrous oxide with Valium.
Oral sedation dentistry might also be an option if a dental procedure is likely to take a relatively long time. By taking an anti-anxiety pill before undergoing dental work, a patient can remain calm throughout treatment.
Some patients even opt for oral sedation dentistry simply because they have strong gag reflexes. If they can calm both their minds and bodies with a pill, they may be less likely to gag when a dentist works on them.
What Are the Benefits of Oral Sedation Dentistry?
Oral sedation dentistry offers a range of potential advantages to both patients and dentists.
That’s not to say that oral sedation dentistry is the right option in all circumstances. Depending on a patient’s dental anxiety, the type of dental procedure they may be undergoing, and various other factors, their dentist might recommend other approaches to sedation.
The best way to learn more about the pros and cons of oral sedation dentistry is to speak with your dentist. They’ll gladly answer your questions, helping you both determine if oral sedation dentistry is right for your needs.
Learn More About Oral Sedation Dentistry in Monmouth County, NJ
At Champagne Smiles, we offer several sedation options to patients who experience dental anxiety. If you’re ready to start your journey to better oral health with Dr. Richard Champagne and a truly collaborative and compassionate dental team, contact Champagne Smiles in Morganville, NJ today to schedule your first appointment.
