How Do I Know If I’m A Good Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?

If you have an upcoming dental visit that you’re feeling a little apathetic about, you might be wondering if there’s anything that can be done to ensure a smooth and stress-free visit. Fortunately, oral conscious sedation is one available option that is proven to help patients who struggle to sit in the dental chair, regardless of the reason for their difficulty. Keep reading to learn a little more about this innovative treatment option and how to know if you’re a good candidate for it.

A Closer Look at Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation involves taking medication (usually in the form of a pill) before your appointment, during treatment, or the night before in order to reduce fear, anxiety, or other complications related to your dental care. It can range from minimal to moderate, depending on the patient’s unique needs. It’s worth noting that with oral conscious sedation, you’ll still remain responsive to physical and verbal stimuli.

How to Know If Oral Conscious Sedation Is Right for You

If you’re interested in receiving oral conscious sedation, you might be wondering if you’re an eligible candidate. Fortunately, this form of treatment is safe and effective for most patients; however, your dental team will always review your well-being before deeming it a viable option.

Oral conscious sedation is ideal for the following situations:

• Patients wanting to take the edge off dental care.
• Patients with debilitating dental fear or anxiety.
• Patients with a strong gag reflex.
• Patients with acute or chronic jaw pain.
• Patients with behavioral or physical limitations that interfere with their ability to remain seated.

It’s also worth mentioning that oral conscious sedation offers numerous other benefits. Since patients are relaxed and comfortable, treatment is generally easier and faster to perform. Patients also usually have no recollection of their treatment, leaving them with a pleasant and relaxing experience. Best of all, most patients require less postoperative pain medications, recover sooner, and are less sore after receiving oral conscious sedation!

If you’re curious about oral conscious sedation and think it might make your next dental visit easier, the odds are that it absolutely will!

About the Author

Dr. Reza Modarres received his DDS from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry in 2005 and has proudly served patients and families in the Ellicott City, MD area for several years. His practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of sedation dentistry treatment options, including oral conscious sedation. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, you can contact the practice online or by phone for additional assistance: (410) 465-3224.