Oral Sedation Dentistry FAQ
We understand that there is some anxiety that often comes with dental work - that is why we offer Sedation Dentistry as well as some answers below on our most frequently asked questions about Sedation Dentistry. Our goal is to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible before, during and after your dentist visit. Continue reading below for answers to our most commonly asked sedation dentistry questions. If you still have unanswered questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
Q: What are the Benefits of Oral Sedation Dentistry?
A: It allows you to comfortably undergo everything from a simple cleaning to extensive concerns. One of the additional benefits is that the medicine has an amnesia quality, which for most patients, tends to prevent almost any memory of the visit. The Sedation also allows for most treatments to be provided in a shorter time which often results in a decrease of necessary visits. The medicine itself enhances the effectiveness of the anesthetic, decreases gagging and decreases joint and muscle soreness so that you are as comfortable as possible.
Q: How does Oral Sedation Dentistry work?
A: On the day of your appointment, you’ll take medication - a pill, then a companion will take you to the office. Experienced clinical team members will make certain that you’re relaxed and completely comfortable. You will be monitored very closely while you are sedated. Many patients feel NO DISCOMFORT whatsoever during and after treatment, and have little or no memory of the visit.
Q: What is the medicine used during so called “sleep dentistry”?
A: The medicine is called Triazolam. It is a small blue pill taken about 1 hour before your visit. This tablet has been prescribed over 10 million times per year, by physicians, for patient’s use at home. The drug has almost no side effects or interaction with other medicines you may currently be taking.
Q: Is Oral Sedation Dentistry safe?
A: Oral Sedation Dentistry protocols have been used safely for over 30 years with millions of dental procedures. Before starting any treatments, your doctor will review your medical history and explain how Oral Sedation Dentistry can work for you. During treatment we constantly monitor each patient with a computerized pulse oximeter, which measures heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation. We also have a reversal agent on hand that reverses the effect of the medicine in less than 30 seconds. We have treated numerous patients safely and comfortably. Dr. Stanley wants you to feel good about going forward towards a healthy, new smile.
Q: Am I Really Asleep?
A: Most patients do tend to fall asleep, however you can still respond to verbal commands. Even the most apprehensive patients have been ecstatic with the results.
Q: Will I feel any pain?
A: Most patients feel no discomfort whatsoever during their treatment and feel surprisingly good afterwards.
Q: Will I be totally relaxed?
A: You’ll receive just enough sedation so that you’ll be completely unaware of the treatment, as you would if you were asleep.
Q: Will I remember anything?
A: At the end of the treatment, you’ll have little or no memory of your dental visit.
Q: Will I be groggy after my treatment is over?
A: You will feel just fine. For most patients, the effects last between 2-4 hours. Therefore, for your safety, we do require that you have a family member or friend drive you home.
Q: Will my insurance cover sedation treatment?
A: We’ll review your insurance coverage and, if necessary, make financial arrangements to insure you get the dental care you need.
Q: Who is a Candidate for Oral Sedation Dentistry?
A: There are many good candidates for the procedure but we like to limit its use to adults. If you experience any of the following and are an otherwise healthy adult, you are likely a great candidate for sedation dentistry:
- Fear of visiting the dentist
- Experienced past traumatic dental work
- Difficulty getting numb
- A sensitive gag reflex
- Very sensitive teeth
- Limited time to complete your dental care
- Complex dental problems
- Have a fear of needles
- Have a fear of sights and sounds associated with dental care
- Are afraid and embarrassed of your teeth
If you are interested in Oral Sedation Dentistry please contact us or visit or main Sedation Dentistry page to learn more. Or, explore our other answers to frequently asked dental questions below.
