Oral conscious sedation is designed to help you relax, which is why we are passionate about giving our patients as much information as possible about the treatment. We believe the more you know about the procedures at our office, the less room there is for stress or uncertainty!
Listed below are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about oral conscious sedation. If your question isn’t one listed below, reach out to us!
What Is Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is a relaxing medication you can take in the form of a pill. It is a popular method of sedation dentistry, which includes any treatment that helps a patient relax before and during their dental procedure. Other methods of sedation dentistry also include laughing gas and IV sedation.
All of these sedation methods are administered with the patient’s comfort in mind, and they can help you feel calm and collected during any dental procedure. Every sedation method has its pros and cons, and talking to your dentist is a great way to determine which method of sedation dentistry is right for you.
What Makes Oral Conscious Sedation Different From Other Forms of Sedation Dentistry?
Oral conscious sedation is the only type of dental sedation that takes the form of a pill. This makes it one of the most convenient and least intrusive sedation methods; you won’t have to worry about wearing a mask over your nose or an IV in your arm with oral conscious sedation.
Because it’s taken orally, this sedation method will take effect slightly more slowly than other sedation methods. You will have to wait a few minutes for the medication to take effect, and the sedation effects may linger after the procedure is over.
Does Oral Conscious Sedation Put Patients to Sleep?
No! As its official name suggests, oral conscious sedation leaves patients awake and conscious. You won’t fall asleep after taking an oral sedation pill, but you should expect to feel very relaxed and possibly drowsy. You will need someone to drive you home from your appointment.
What Does Oral Conscious Sedation Feel Like?
Every patient will describe the feeling a little differently, but you can expect to feel some combination of calm, relaxed, sleepy, and a little groggy. Your specific experience will depend on your body and the dosage you receive.
You should be able to speak and respond to questions while under oral conscious sedation, although mild amnesia following oral sedation is common—you might not remember any conversations you had afterwards!
Even if you were stressed or anxious when you came to our office, this sedation will erase those feelings and help you feel comfortable and confident—no matter what dental procedure you’re receiving.
How Long Does Oral Conscious Sedation Last?
Depending on your dosage and the way you individually react to oral conscious sedation, your sedation time will vary. Talking to your dentist is the best way to get a good idea of how long you can expect the sedation effects to linger after your procedure, but regardless of dosage, the effects will not last longer than 24 hours.
Do Patients Feel Pain Under Oral Conscious Sedation?
No! One of the key features of any type of sedation dentistry is pain prevention. You won’t feel pain under oral conscious sedation, although that doesn’t mean you won’t feel anything at all. However, any minor discomfort you might feel will be easy to forget thanks to the relaxing effect of the sedation.
Can a Patient Drive After Oral Conscious Sedation?
We recommend bringing a friend or family member to drive you home after your procedure. Oral conscious sedation takes some time to wear off completely, and it’s unsafe to drive while you’re still feeling those effects.
Oral Conscious Sedation Makes It Possible To Forget Your Stress and Relax in the Dentist’s Chair.
If you still have questions about oral conscious sedation, contact us today! We are passionate about helping patients and would be happy to give you any additional information you need.
