Oral Sedation Dentistry
Oral Sedation at Southeastern Dental Center
We understand that dental anxiety can prevent many patients from receiving the oral health care they need. We want you to know, you’re not alone. Southeastern Dental Center is proud to offer oral sedation dentistry—a safe, effective solution designed to help you feel completely relaxed and at ease in the chair while benefiting from essential dental care.
What is Oral Sedation Dentistry?
Oral sedation is a safe and proven method for making patients more at ease during dental procedures with a prescribed medication. Unlike general anesthesia, you'll remain conscious and able to respond to your dentist, while feeling deeply relaxed and comfortable throughout your treatment.
About an hour before your appointment, you'll take an oral sedative pill per prior instructions from your doctor. Many patients describe the experience as being in a peaceful, dream-like state, with little to no memory of the procedure afterward. This makes oral sedation an excellent option for those with dental anxiety.
Our sedation-certified doctors and team members carefully monitor patients throughout their entire visit, ensuring your complete safety and comfort. You’ll then be released to a companion to drive you home to rest while the sedatives wear off. Post-care instructions will be provided, and we’ll follow up later to make sure you’re doing well.
Benefits of Oral Sedation for Dental Patients
When you choose oral sedation at Southeastern Dental Center, you'll experience numerous advantages that make dental care easier and more comfortable than ever before.
Our patients appreciate that oral sedation:
- Eliminates anxiety and fear during dental procedures
- Allows completion of multiple treatments in fewer visits
- Creates a comfortable, relaxing experience
- Reduces or eliminates gag reflex sensitivity
- Minimizes memory of the dental procedure
- Makes time pass quickly during longer treatments
- Provides deep relaxation while maintaining consciousness
Who Isn't a Good Candidate for Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation dentistry is not suitable for everyone, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your dentist before deciding. Some of the circumstances that may preclude patients from choosing oral sedation include:
Medical Conditions
Oral sedation may not be suitable for patients with impaired liver or kidney function, congestive heart failure, respiratory diseases, or thyroid and adrenal disorders.
Certain Medications
People taking antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or other drugs that counteract oral sedation may not be good candidates.
Pregnant Women
Sedation medications can affect fetal development, so most dentists will wait until after pregnancy to administer sedation dentistry.
Patient Age
The very young and the elderly are often not good candidates for oral sedation.
Before administering oral sedation, our highly skilled dentists thoroughly review a patient’s medical history, current conditions, and medications to prevent any negative interactions.
Ask About Oral Sedation Today
We understand that dental anxiety can prevent patients from receiving the care they need and deserve, so Southeastern Dental Center is proud to offer the option of oral sedation dentistry. Your comfort is our top priority. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
