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If you are like many Americans who suffer from dental anxiety, you are probably going to like the idea of oral sedation dentistry. No longer only used when getting extensive dental work, oral sedation can now be implemented for everything – including regular teeth cleanings.

All you have to do is ask. From now on, you can remain relaxed and comfortable and without a care in the world during your dental appointments!

Let’s talk about what is involved in oral sedation dentistry, and where you can go for a consultation and dental treatment you actually enjoy for a change.

What Is Oral Sedation?

Oral sedation dentistry involves the use of a mild sedative during a dental procedure. The sedative allows you to remain completely relaxed while still being aware enough to be able to respond to what the dentist says. You will remain in a semi-conscious state throughout the procedure.

Sedation dentistry does not require an anesthesiologist to be at hand, because the sedation is so mild. There are virtually no risks.

Most patients prefer to be conscious yet unable to feel anxiety throughout the procedure. Most patients who receive oral sedation dentistry have no memory of the dental procedure afterward, and they felt no pain or anxiousness.

How Is Oral Sedation Dentistry Different from IV Sedation?

With oral sedation, your dentist will give you a pill to take about an hour before your appointment. This means that you will not be able to drive to your appointment, because you will be too drowsy.

With IV sedation, in contrast, the dentist administers the sedative directly into an arm in your vein. The sedation lasts as long as the IV is in your arm. Once your appointment is over, the dentist will remove the IV, and you will fully wake up. Talk to your dentist about whether you will be able to drive back home or back to work afterward.

Should I Try Sedation at My Next Dental Appointment?

Oral sedation dentistry may be right for you if any of the following rings true:

• You have a fear of going to the dentist, and this anxiety holds you back from getting dental cleanings and treatments.
• You have a strong gag reflex that can prevent the completion of a dental procedure, even cleanings.
• Your teeth are extremely sensitive, so contact with the dentist’s tools is intolerable.
• You are having multiple procedures completed in a single visit.

Oral Sedation Dentistry in Plantation, FL

If you would like to have more relaxed dental appointments, Dr. Ernie Soto can provide sedation dentistry for your entire visit, every time. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Soto, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (954) 368-6264 or by filling out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your partner in total dental health!