Regularly visiting the dentist is a must to keep your smile in tip-top shape. This may seem like a simple task, but it is easier said than done for many people. If you have dental anxiety or something else that makes it difficult to receive dental care, oral conscious sedation could be a great option to help. You may be a good candidate for oral conscious sedation if you have any of the following.
Dental Anxiety
This is the most common reason why people opt for oral conscious sedation for their dental care. Approximately 9-15% of Americans avoid going to the dentist thanks to nervousness or fear. If this applies to you, oral conscious sedation could be a great way for you to get the care you need. It is less intense than IV sedation but still relaxes you enough to receive care with ease. You will be awake and able to respond to your dentist’s instructions.
Increased Sensitivity
If you have gums or teeth that are particularly sensitive, dental visits can be more uncomfortable for you than the average person. This is where oral conscious sedation can play a role. Being sedated for your treatment reduces your ability to register pain resulting in a more comfortable treatment. If your dental visits are uncomfortable, consider asking your dentist about oral conscious sedation to see if it’s a viable solution for you.
Overactive Gag Reflex
Even if you aren’t anxious about the idea of going to the dentist, this doesn’t mean oral conscious sedation is off the table for you. If you find that you gag easily and uncontrollably when your dentist is working in your mouth, oral conscious sedation may be able to help. This can be caused by different smells, tastes, and the presence of dental tools in the mouth. Oral conscious sedation can reduce the sensitivity of the gag reflex. In addition to making the experience more comfortable for you, it allows your dentist to work more quickly and efficiently.
Long Procedure
Even for those who feel perfectly relaxed while at the dentist, having a long, throughout dental treatment can be uncomfortable after a while. If you know that you need to sit in the dental chair for a long time, oral conscious sedation can help you feel more comfortable for this duration.
There are various ways that patients can benefit from oral conscious sedation. If any of the things above apply to you, it may be worth talking to your dentist. This sedation method could be exactly what you need for a laid-back dental experience.
About the Practice
At Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery, our oral surgery team works together to serve patients in the Reston area. We offer multiple dental sedation options, including oral conscious sedation, to help our patients feel as comfortable as possible while in the treatment chair. To learn more about sedation dentistry or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (703) 736-1640.