At Great Basin Dental, we understand that visiting the dentist can make some people feel anxious or nervous. Whether it’s due to a past experience or fear of pain, dental anxiety is very common. To help our patients feel more comfortable and relaxed during their appointments, we offer oral conscious sedation. This safe and effective method allows our Reno patients to remain calm while still being awake and aware throughout your dental treatment.
What is Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation involves taking medication before your dental appointment to help you feel relaxed and at ease. The medication is typically in pill form and is taken about an hour before your procedure. By the time you arrive at our office, you’ll feel calm and less worried about your treatment.
Even though you’re awake during the procedure, oral conscious sedation puts you in a deeply relaxed state. You’ll still be able to respond to the dentist’s instructions, but you may feel drowsy or even forget parts of the procedure once it’s over. This makes it a great option for patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety who want to feel more comfortable in the dental chair.
How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Help with Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety affects many people and can range from mild nervousness to severe fear. Some patients may even avoid going to the dentist altogether because of their anxiety. However, skipping dental care can lead to bigger problems down the road, including tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Oral conscious sedation helps reduce anxiety by allowing you to feel calm and at ease during your visit. The medication works by relaxing your body and mind, making it easier to get through procedures like cleanings, fillings, and other dental treatments. For patients who have avoided the dentist due to fear, sedation dentistry can make it possible to get the care they need without feeling overwhelmed.
Is Oral Conscious Sedation Right for You?
Oral conscious sedation is a great option for many patients, especially those who:
- Have dental anxiety or fear of the dentist
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Need a lot of dental work done in one visit
- Have difficulty sitting still for long periods
- Are nervous about discomfort or pain during treatment
At Great Basin Dental, we will discuss your needs and medical history to determine if oral conscious sedation is the right choice for you. We want to make sure you feel safe and comfortable during your treatment, and sedation can be an important part of making that happen.
What to Expect During Sedation Dentistry
If you choose oral conscious sedation, we will provide detailed instructions before your appointment. You’ll take the medication about an hour before your visit, and by the time you arrive, you should be feeling more relaxed. It’s important to have someone drive you to and from the office, as the effects of the medication can last for a few hours after your appointment.
During your treatment, you’ll remain awake but very relaxed. Our team will monitor you closely to make sure everything goes smoothly. After your procedure, you may feel a bit groggy or sleepy, so plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Most patients find that the experience of sedation dentistry makes future visits much less stressful, and they feel more confident about receiving dental care.
Get the Care You Need with Sedation Dentistry at Great Basin Dental
At Great Basin Dental, we are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. If you’ve been putting off dental treatment due to anxiety or fear, oral conscious sedation may be the solution for you. Our team is here to help you relax and get the care you need for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Contact us today to learn more about sedation dentistry or to schedule an appointment. Let us help you overcome dental anxiety so you can feel confident about your oral health!