Making your way through your sedation dentistry options can begin to feel a little bit like trudging through mud. What begins as a wonderful reaction (patients usually feel overjoyed when they discover sedation) may turn into a state of confusion (after all, with so many choice, determining which type of sedation is right for you can feel a little bit overwhelming). Here’s a good place to start: If the idea of taking a pill before your visit sounds good, learn more about oral sedation – you will likely find it offers just what you’re looking for.

Questions and Answers: Oral Sedation

Question: Is this an injection-based sedative?

Answer: No, you will not need an injection. This is one of the reasons oral sedation offers a wonderful option for many patients. If you have a phobia or general dislike of needles, you will enjoy the fact that with oral sedation, you simply need to swallow a pill.

Question: Will I fall asleep?

Answer: No. We practice conscious sedation, which means you will remain awake during your treatment. However, you should not let this fool you – though you will still be able to speak with us if we give you directions or ask questions, you will feel extremely relaxed.

Question: Will I be able to return to my usual daytime plans?

Answer: You will most likely need to take a good portion of the day off. Due to your deep state of relaxation, you will be too groggy to operate heavy machinery (such as a car) and will need time for the medication to wear off. In most cases, you will need to go home and rest, while giving yourself time to recover.

Question: Is this stronger than laughing gas?

Answer: Yes, you can expect moderate relaxation with oral sedation. Nitrous oxide is considered quite gentle yet effective, while IV sedation is the deepest state of tranquility you will achieve.

ABOUT YOUR CONROE, TX DENTIST:

The Dental Centre of Conroe, John M Richards DDS delivers distinctive cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry for residents of Conroe, Houston, The Woodlands, Montgomery, Willis, Magnolia, Huntsville, and the neighboring communities. For more information about our services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us by calling (936) 441-4600.