Dental anxiety is common. Many patients avoid going to the dentist because they fear the dentist. When people avoid going to the dentist, complex dental problems can develop. The key to treating and diagnosing dental problems is catching them early enough to prevent any complex treatment. Whether you suffer from dental fear or need extensive periodontal treatments, Dr. Bradley Dean offers sedation dentistry with oral sedation in Dallas, TX.
You should not let fear prevent you from getting a healthy smile. At his Dallas area dental office, Dr. Dean will ensure that your dental implant or periodontal procedure is pain-free. Oral sedation is a great option for patients receiving necessary care for the most comfortable and relaxing experience. It offers highly effective and safe treatment for anxious patients.
A Solution for Dental Anxiety: Oral Sedation in Dallas
Many people avoid the dentist due to fear, anxiety and bad past experiences. Regular dental appointments are vital to optimal oral health. At the periodontal office of Dr. Dean, we will take all the time you need to tell us about your story and past experiences.
We will understand your fears, anxieties, and concerns about the emotional process of dental treatment. Our entire staff is judgment-free and is here to help you in any way possible. Dental sedation is a very safe and effective option to eliminate fear and dental anxiety.
Instead of skipping your treatment, we highly recommend that you consider our oral conscious sedation method. Our team of caring dental professionals will help you relax during your dental visits.
About Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry
Oral conscious sedation provides “light sedation” to ease anxiety. This type of sedation includes a pill that you take before your appointment. Dr. Dean will prescribe a medication (in pill form, not nitrous oxide/laughing gas) that you will take about an hour before your visit.
After you take the pill, you will remain conscious but will not feel any pain. You must have a responsible adult escort you to and from your appointment. Medications will impair your ability to drive.
You will remain fully conscious but able to breathe independently during the procedure. Once the procedure is complete, most patients do not remember most of it despite being awake throughout it.
A drawback to oral sedation is the unpredictability of side effects and reactions. In rare cases, the recovery can be uncomfortable with unwanted side effects. These side effects may include drowsiness, headaches, or nausea.
Benefits of Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry
Oral conscious sedation is a modern, safe, and effective technique. It can help patients who are anxious about visiting the periodontist, have difficulty with dentures, or need extensive treatment. Sedation eliminates anxiety and reduces the need for more painful procedures. More benefits include:
- We will not have to use needles.
- Prescription medication taken before your visit.
- More affordable compared to intravenous (IV) sedation.
- Allows the dentist to perform more dental work in fewer visits.
- The patient can communicate with their dentist and ask questions during the procedure.
- It allows for more precise placement of dental implants, bridges, crowns, and tooth restorations that require anesthesia.
Oral Sedation FAQs
Learn more about oral sedation in our Dallas, TX office with answers to these common patient questions:
Can I drive after I take oral sedation?
No. We will require you to have a reliable ride to and from your appointment. Even though oral conscious sedation does not make you fall asleep, the effects can take a few hours to wear off.
Talk to our dentist about your concerns before you decide which type of sedation to use during your dental appointment.
I am scared of needles. Can I use oral sedation?
Yes! Dr. Dean may recommend oral sedation for many reasons, including the fear of needles. Anxiety is a common problem faced by many people. It can prevent patients from going to the dentist or even getting a vaccine. Oral sedation is an option for those who are scared of needles, but it may not be right for everyone.
Oral sedation can help people who are anxious about dental treatments because it reduces their anxiety and makes them more comfortable. It also helps with nausea, vomiting, and other side effects of dental work.
However, it may not be the best option for those who have trouble breathing or swallowing. We may not recommend it if you have medical conditions like asthma or dementia.
Some reasons patients choose oral sedation include:
- You feel nervous about your upcoming appointment.
- You have severe fear or anxiety when thinking about visiting a dentist.
- You have a strong gag reflex that prevents you from getting the care you need.
- If you have difficulty sitting for long periods of time.
- If you simply want to remain calm because you are completing many dental procedures in a single visit.
Do I qualify for oral sedation options?
Most patients qualify for oral conscious sedation. However, you must consult your primary if your medical history includes any of the following:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Lung disease
- Other chronic conditions
Before treatment, we will review your medical history, current medications, and allergies. Other factors that impact sedation include age, weight, anxiety levels, and your type of procedure. We often will not recommend sedation if you are pregnant.
How long does oral sedation last?
Oral sedation typically lasts between 2 to 8 hours, depending on the type of medication and dosage used. The effects usually start within 30 to 60 minutes after taking the pill, and you’ll feel relaxed and tired during the procedure. The sedation will gradually wear off throughout the day. Because the effects can linger, you’ll need someone to drive you home.
How many dental procedures can I have under oral sedation?
Under oral sedation, you can typically undergo multiple dental procedures in a single visit. The sedation keeps you comfortable and allows the dentist to perform several treatments without causing you stress. Common combinations might include fillings, extractions, and crown placements. The number of procedures depends on the complexity of the work and how long the sedation lasts. We will plan the session to maximize efficiency while ensuring your safety and comfort.
Will I remember the procedure under oral sedation?
Under oral sedation, you might remember little or nothing about the procedure. While you stay awake and responsive, the sedation typically causes drowsiness and can produce an amnesic effect. This makes it hard to recall details of the treatment. Some patients remember vague snippets, while others remember nothing at all. This effect is one reason oral sedation is popular for reducing anxiety during dental procedures.
How strong is oral sedation?
Oral sedation is generally strong enough to keep you relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures. It doesn’t put you to sleep but makes you feel drowsy and calm. The level of sedation can vary depending on the dosage and your response. You might feel groggy and have little memory of the procedure, but you’ll still be conscious and able to respond to instructions. The effects usually wear off within a few hours. As a result, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
How to Make Dental Visits Comfortable
Dr. Dean offers oral sedation and IV sedation whether you have a fear of the dentist or just want to be at peace. He is licensed by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners in Sedation Dentistry. Dr. Dean has taken the required hours of continuing education to maintain his anesthesia permit. He will evaluate your overall health and medical history to ensure your safety.
In addition, our office offers other recommendations when you are not under sedation:
- Listen to audiobooks, podcasts, or music through headphones
- Bring noise-cancelling headphones if you are sensitive to noise
- Agree on a signal to pause treatment
Our office will ensure you feel relaxed and comfortable throughout your treatment.
Get Comfortable Dental Care
If you have additional questions about dental sedation or dental implant periodontistry, request an appointment online. You can also call us at (972) 666-1594. We will be glad to assist you.