Oral conscious sedation

Dentistry has been improved significantly using sedation. At Peninsula Dental Implant Center, you can talk with Dr. Gupta about completing procedures with oral conscious sedation, a form that is popular for its convenience and effectiveness.

What is oral conscious sedation?

Oral sedation is the use of a prescription sedative medication designed to relax anxiety and fear. The term oral conscious sedation differentiates this method from general anesthesia, the type usually used for medical surgeries. Another way to tell the difference between general anesthesia and dental sedation is that dental patients can breathe and swallow on their own, whereas general anesthesia requires assisted breathing.

Oral conscious sedation takes some time to work. Patients are dosed carefully for maximum effect before the onset of their treatment. How long it takes to feel the calming effects of oral conscious sedation can vary from one person to another and also from one medication to another. If sedation is a planned service, we may have you arrive early to your appointment to allow plenty of time for your sedative to take effect. Depending on your situation, we may simply write you a prescription for your sedative to take at home before your appointment.

Why do so many people decide on oral conscious sedation?

For many years before the development of oral sedation for dentistry, patients were treated with nitrous oxide. The inhalation method of sedation can be comfortable but may not offer the level of relaxation our patients want. In some cases, it is possible to combine the two. Oral sedation is ideal for moderately anxious patients as well as for those who do not like needles. The gradual onset of calming effects allows patients to feel more relaxed before they even arrive at our office. Upon the completion of care, when sedative medication has worn off, patients remember little of any details of their dental treatment.

Do you need sedation?

Oral conscious sedation is safe and effective at reducing dental anxiety. Oral medication may adversely interact with certain other medications. Dr. Gupta plans carefully for the right sedative, conducting a thorough consultation and health history review with each patient. If you think you may want sedation for your treatment, talk with our staff about all medications you are taking so that we may find the safest method to ensure your peace of mind.

We are committed to comfort and safety. Patients who choose sedation are carefully monitored throughout their procedure.

To receive advanced care from an experienced implant dentist, call Peninsula Dental Implant Center.