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Oral Sedation Dentistry: An Option for Anxious Patients

A visit to the dentist can cause fear and anxiety. Patients who experience dental phobia may postpone or avoid vital dental appointment, and multiple dental visits is out of the question. Neglecting your oral health can lead to tooth loss, disease, and overall health problems. However, you can overcome dental fear with oral sedation dentistry.

What is oral sedation dentistry?
Oral sedation dentistry is the use of medication to achieve an appropriate level of relaxation so that a fearful patient can calmly receive the dental care he or she needs. The entire process is simple and comfortable.

At your first appointment, we will discuss with you your overall health and medical history. If you feel comfortable, we will take X-rays and examine your teeth and supporting tissues. This will give us the information we need to determine which dental treatments will restore your smile. Before you leave the office, we will schedule your next appointment and prescribe an anxiolytic, or anti-anxiety, medication.

We will advise you as to when you should take the medication, usually the night before your dental appointment. Accompanied by a responsible friend or family member, you'll arrive at the dentist's office more rested and relaxed. We will gauge your anxiety level when you arrive for the appointment. If needed, more medication will be given to further relax you, and an experienced sedation dentistry team will monitor your vital signs during the procedure. Your friend or family member will accompany you home once your dental work is complete. The effects of the sedative should subside by the following day. It is wise to have a friend or relative stay with you until the medication wears off.

Although your dental procedures may take hours, you will feel as if they take only minutes. Some patients become so relaxed that they fall asleep in the dentist's chair. Sedation medications have an amnesic effect, so you'll have few, if any, memories of the visit. You can immediately enjoy your improved smile.

Who should consider oral sedation dentistry?
You may want to consider oral sedation if:

• You are fearful or anxious of dental treatment and dental instruments
• Local anaesthetics do not have a numbing effect on you
• You have a sensitive gag reflex
• You suffer from any health issues, such as neck or back pain, which could lead to discomfort while sitting in a dentist's chair

How do I determine if I am a candidate?
Contact a dentist to discuss whether oral sedation dentistry is an option for you. Oral sedation can give you the peace of mind you need in order to undergo dental work. You may enjoy better overall health, an improved self-image, and better quality of life with a healthy, beautiful smile.

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©2004 Paul Taxin, DMD
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