Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry
by Robert Rapisarda
We understand that going to the dentist can be intimidating – for some, it’s terrifying. For those who suffer from dental anxiety, we offer oral conscious sedation dentistry. We welcome you to schedule a consultation at the Worcester cosmetic dentistry practice of Dr. Robert Rapisarda to see if sedation dentistry is right for you.
What Is Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry?
Oral conscious sedation dentistry is a form of sedation dentistry administered orally. The sedative is given in a pill form about an hour before treatment. The amount of sedation depends on the dose given and can range from minimal to moderate sedation. In either case, oral conscious sedation puts patients in a relaxed state without being completely unconscious. Once the sedation wears off, many patients will have little to no memory of their dental procedure.
The amount of sedative given to the patient depends on the level of sedation desired. This is usually based on the degree of dental anxiety the patient suffers from. Minimal sedation is used for people with mild anxiety. Minimal sedation simply relaxes the patient while leaving them awake and more aware. Moderate sedation may be necessary if the patient suffers from more severe dental anxiety. With moderate sedation, the patient is still awake but will feel drowsier and will most likely not be able to remember the dental procedure.
Am I a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Candidates for oral sedation typically suffer from dental anxiety. You may have dental anxiety if you experience any of the following:
- Fear of going to the dentist. If your fear of the dentist is so severe that you have avoided seeing the dentist, you most likely have dental anxiety and would greatly benefit from sedation dentistry.
- Feelings of uneasiness leading up to your dental visit. Sufferers of dental anxiety often begin to feel uneasy before a dental appointment, with feelings of uneasiness increasing as the appointment approaches.
- Feeling stressed before or during a dental visit. Feeling stressed before and during a dental visit is another indicator of dental anxiety.
- Feeling panicked or shortness of breath. Feelings of panic, including shortness of breath, are a common trait of dental anxiety.
- Feeling increasingly nervous leading up to your dental examination. As with feelings of uneasiness, nervousness can increase as the dental visit approaches.
- Feeling physically ill before a dental visit. Those with severe dental anxiety may feel physically ill before a dental visit.
- Feeling like crying or actually crying at the thought of going to the dentist. In the most extreme cases of dental anxiety, sufferers may feel like crying or actually cry at even the thought of going to the dentist.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Robert Rapisarda
Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from getting the care you need. With oral conscious sedation dentistry, you can stay relaxed and stress-free during your dental exam. Even if you don’t suffer from dental anxiety, oral conscious sedation dentistry can be used during your next dental procedure. For our Worcester dental implants patients, oral conscious sedation dentistry is a great option to ensure each stage of the treatment process is pleasant. Contact our offices today to see if oral conscious sedation dentistry is right for you.
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