Visiting the dentist’s office can often be a nerve-wracking experience for some individuals; in fact, it often causes many to avoid treatment altogether. However, oral conscious sedation can alleviate many of the fears and concerns patients have regarding the dentist’s chair and any possible procedures. A dentist explains what is required for a person to be considered a good candidate for this type of treatment and whether it is the right option for you.
Which Signs Indicate Candidacy for Oral Conscious Sedation?
When preparing to receive any kind of sedation, it is necessary that you first meet with your dentist for a thorough consultation. It is during this visit that they will go over your medical history as well as determine which medications you’re currently taking.
Depending on whether you suffer from any of the following, you may be eligible to receive oral conscious sedation:
- You express a moderate level of anxiety when it comes to visiting the dentist’s office. You may be prone to rescheduling or canceling appointments out of fear.
- You are fearful of needles, which can make receiving local anesthesia for procedures like dental fillings, root canals, and crowns more difficult.
- You have a sensitive gag reflex that makes it risky for dentists to examine the inside of your mouth, as a sudden jolt or movement could be harmful to your oral cavity.
- You struggle to sit still for prolonged periods because of a physical ailment.
- You are preparing for a longer procedure and need something to help you stay still and relaxed throughout the appointment.
What Makes a Person Unfit for Oral Conscious Sedation?
Although a person rarely experiences problems after receiving sedation, it is possible, and there are risks involved. Your dentist will go over these with you during your consultation so that you have the option to move forward or decline this type of treatment.
However, in cases where you would prefer sedation, you may be ineligible if you:
- Are pregnant – Women who are pregnant should not expect to be able to receive sedation at any point during their pregnancies. Depending on the severity of the problem, it may be possible to receive nitrous oxygen based on the trimester; however, oral conscious sedation is not recommended because of the potentially harmful effects it can have on the baby.
- Suffer from respiratory illness – The medication your dentist will prescribe tends to slow your breathing, which can negatively affect your lungs if you struggle with chronic bronchitis or any other kind of respiratory disease.
- You consumed alcohol before your appointment – While you might think that a glass of wine can help relax you for your dental visit, the truth is that mixing alcohol with any kind of oral medication is dangerous. Not only can it lower your blood pressure, but it can make it hard for you to breathe.
Sharing your medical history and current medications with your dentist is essential when inquiring about sedation. Doing so will ensure that you remain completely safe while getting the oral healthcare you need.
About Grand Dental – Lake Zurich
At Grand Dental – Lake Zurich, dental anxiety doesn’t have to be a reality. Instead, we offer sedation dentistry to make visits to the dentist’s office easier and less stressful. Using oral conscious sedation, we make it easier for individuals to remain calm and relaxed no matter the kind of procedure they plan to receive. Visit our website or call (847) 443-3953 to learn how we can help.