Benefits, Process, and Side Effects Of Oral Sedation

Are you afraid of the dentist? You are not alone. According to the NIH, dental anxiety or fear affects approximately 36% of the population, with 12% suffering from extreme dental fear. This fear can keep you from seeking dental care, negatively affecting your life. At Vassey Dental Partners, we believe in the value of regular dental care and seek to help you overcome this fear. One way we help is by offering oral-conscious sedation dentistry.

Oral Sedation Dentistry is a simple method that uses oral sedatives to help patients calm down before dental procedures. To help ease your fears and to understand your options, let’s cover the benefits of sedation dentistry and the potential side effects. We will also provide a few tips on what to expect if you choose to undergo Oral Sedation at our practice in Peachtree City, GA!

Why Is Oral Sedation Beneficial?

The primary benefit is that you will feel relaxed during your procedure. Another desirable benefit is that no needles or injections are used. In oral conscious sedation dentistry, the sedative is usually a pill. Pills are safe and easy to administer. Common examples of sedatives used in oral sedation dentistry are usually a type of Benzodiazepine such as Valium, Halcion, and Xanax. Oral sedation dentistry is the most beneficial method for patients who fear going to the dentist, mainly because many patients do not remember their procedure afterward. So even though you will be conscious during the procedure, patients rarely remember it. Oral sedation is popular because it is the most affordable sedation method, so you can expect to pay less. Additionally, it allows dentists to perform more dental work on patients during a procedure, which saves money and time from additional visits.

What Are the Side Effects of Oral Sedation?

While oral sedation has its benefits, it’s important to know the side effects that come with it. The pill must be taken about an hour before your procedure and sometimes can take several hours to wear off. You could feel groggy or sleepy for most of the day. For this reason, you will need a driver for your appointment. Other occasional side effects could be dry mouth, headaches, nausea, and vomiting.

What Can You Expect When You Undergo Oral Sedation Dentistry?

You will take your pill about an hour before the procedure. After being given the sedative, you will start to feel groggy and may sleep through the procedure. The dentist may nudge you awake if they need to communicate with you. After the procedure is completed, you will be able to go home immediately, but you will need an escort to take you home because the effects of the sedative will leave you unable to drive.

Your Dentists in Peachtree City, GA

We are a dentistry practice in Peachtree City, GA. At Vassey Dental Partners, our staff performs oral sedation dentistry quickly, safely, and effectively. Let our team of dentists help you put your fears at ease so you can enjoy clean and healthy teeth