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Dental anxiety refers to having anxious or troubled feelings surrounding dental visits, dental procedures, or anything else related to dental appointments. Since many adults suffer from dental anxiety, we offer oral conscious sedation as an option for some of our dental treatments and procedures. Oral conscious sedation helps our patients to feel relaxed and comfortable throughout their visit so that their anxiety is reduced. To learn more about oral conscious sedation in Encinitas and to find out if it’s right for you, contact us today for an appointment!
Oral conscious sedation is a method of sedation that allows a patient to relax during a procedure while still remaining conscious and awake. It helps to relieve dental anxiety and discomfort so that your visit to the dentist is a more stress-free experience. Your sedation dentist will prescribe an oral medication for you to take about an hour before your appointment. These conscious sedation drugs will make you feel tired and relaxed, though you will still be able to answer questions and respond to instructions. Some patients ask, is conscious sedation safe? The answer is yes. Your oral conscious sedation dentist will work with you to determine your medical history and to find the sedation drug that is right for you.
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Oral conscious sedation is also a good choice if you deal with any of the following:
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Your dentist will talk with you to determine your medical history and will then select the best oral conscious sedation drug for you and your procedure. Some common options include Valium, Triazolam, and Lorazepam. You will take your prescription drug about an hour before your appointment to give it time to take effect. Once you arrive at the dentist, your procedure will begin. You will remain in a calm and relaxed state throughout your appointment. You will also remain conscious and be able to respond to questions, instructions, and to be aware of your environment. Oral conscious sedation does not take the place of local anesthetic, and this will still be used if needed during your treatment. The effects of the medication will wear off gradually in the hours following your appointment.
Though you will be conscious and awake for your appointment, you will be in a very relaxed state. That means you will need someone to drive you both to and from your visit. Arrange with a friend or family member to drive you to your appointment and also home again once it’s over.
The cost of oral conscious sedation will vary depending on factors such as:
Your dentist’s office will work with you to find a cost solution that works for you and your budget.
Some patients put off dental appointments or avoid the dentist completely due to dental anxiety. This can cause not only oral health issues, but general health issues as well. Don’t wait any longer to take care of your dental work. Visit us and our oral conscious sedation dentist team so your next visit can be comfortable and relaxed. Call today to schedule an appointment.
Call (760) 753-3368 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.