Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a technique used by dentists to help patients relax during dental procedures. Unlike other forms of sedation that require injections or inhalation, oral sedation involves taking medication in pill form prior to your appointment. These medications belong to a class called benzodiazepines, which have calming and anxiety-reducing effects.

The beauty of oral sedation lies in its simplicity and convenience. No needles are involved, making it an appealing option for those who fear injections. Plus, it can be easily administered at home before your visit, saving you time and hassle at the clinic.

How Oral Sedation Works

The procedure for oral sedation is relatively simple and straightforward. Before the appointment, our Dentist in Riverside, CA will prescribe a medication that you will take orally prior to your scheduled treatment. This medication is usually in the form of a pill or liquid. Once you arrive at the dental office, you may feel relaxed and drowsy due to the effects of the sedative medication. You'll be led into the treatment room, where your dentist will monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure.

During the dental treatment, whether it's a cleaning, filling, or more extensive work like root canals or extractions, you'll remain conscious but deeply relaxed. The goal of oral sedation is to calm any anxiety or fear you may have while allowing you to communicate with your dentist if necessary. Afterward, someone else must drive you home as lingering effects from the medication can impair driving ability and concentration. Most patients report little to no recollection of their dental visit once they've fully recovered from sedation.

Benefits of Oral Sedation

Oral sedation offers a range of benefits for patients who experience fear or anxiety when visiting the dentist. 

• One of the key advantages is its effectiveness in helping individuals relax and feel at ease during dental procedures. By taking an oral sedative prior to their appointment, patients can significantly reduce feelings of nervousness or unease.
• Another benefit of oral sedation is its convenience. Unlike other forms of sedation, such as IV sedation, oral sedatives are easy to administer and do not require needles or injections. This makes it a more appealing option for those who may have a fear or phobia related to needles.
• Oral sedation allows for better control over levels of relaxation. Dentists can adjust the dosage based on each patient's specific needs, ensuring that they achieve the desired level of comfort without being overly sedated.
• For individuals with sensitive gag reflexes or difficulty sitting still for prolonged periods, oral sedation can be particularly beneficial. It helps to minimize discomfort and enables dentists to perform necessary procedures more efficiently.
• By reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, oral sedation improves overall patient experience and satisfaction. Patients often report feeling less stressed about future dental visits after experiencing the calming effects of this form of sedation.

For the best dental care customized to your needs, visit Riverside Tooth Co. at 6886 Indiana Ave Suite B, Riverside 92506, or call (951) 686-2565.