IS SEDATION DENTISTRY SAFE? ASK A SEDATION DENTIST IN ENGLEWOOD
Did you know that around 1 in 5 people suffers from dental phobia? This can make it really difficult to get the regular dental care that’s so crucial for good oral health. Thankfully, a sedation dentist in Englewood can use oral conscious sedation to help any fearful patient get anxiety-free dentistry. However, one common question people have is how safe it is and what they can expect. Keep reading for answers to those questions, and get one step closer to getting the dental care you need!
What is oral conscious sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is a prescription medication that you take at home prior to your dental appointment. It will give you a deep feeling of calm and relaxation.
And, although you’ll be awake and aware during your procedure, many patients have no memory of their dental work after their medication wears off.
Since you’ll be so physically and mentally relaxed, you will need to have someone drive you to and from your appointment.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
The short answer to this question is yes. Although every medication carries some risk, the risks from the oral medication used in sedation dentistry are very low.
Also, keep in mind that a dentist undergoes extensive training so they can properly review each patient’s medical history to make sure that sedation is safe for them.
In addition, even though the risk of a negative reaction is quite small, you’ll still be closely monitored throughout your procedure. This will include taking your blood pressure and heart rate both before and after to make sure it’s in a healthy range.
Finally, you’ll be glad to know that oral conscious sedation has been used for many decades with an excellent record of safety and success!
How long does oral conscious sedation last?
This largely depends on the dose, body weight, and health history of each patient. An average estimate is about 4 hours, but it can be shorter or longer depending on a variety of factors.
Given this timeframe, a dentist will recommend that you take the day off from work or school to allow your sedation to completely wear off.
Oral conscious sedation is a wonderful option for any patient who finds it difficult to get the dental care they need because of fear or anxiety. It makes having great oral health so much easier– and that’s something to smile about!
About the author
Dr. David R. Smith has decades of experience as a dentist in Englewood and is an expert at helping each patient feel calm and comfortable in the dental chair. If you suffer from dental phobia and have any questions about anxiety-free dentistry in Englewood, he can be reached via his website.