Tranquil Teeth: Who Benefits from Oral Conscious Sedation?

If you’re dreading an upcoming periodontal appointment or procedure, you’re not alone. An estimated 13% to 24% of the population worldwide experiences anxiety when it comes to having their teeth worked on.

Fortunately, your periodontist knows that many people are nervous about their visit, so they offer sedatives, like oral conscious sedation, to help you feel calm and relaxed throughout your appointment. However, many people assume this option is only available for more major procedures. Continue reading to learn more about who can benefit from this medication!

What is Oral Conscious Sedation?

Oral conscious sedation is one of several potential methods your periodontist can use to help you feel comfortable during your visit. This medication is typically prescribed as a pill with instructions to take it before you arrive at your scheduled appointment time. That way, the effects can kick in by the time your provider starts your procedure. Popular options include benzodiazepines (like triazolam, diazepam, or midazolam), zaleplon, lorazepam, or hydroxyzine.

Some patients worry that the drug will “knock them out”, but thankfully, that’s not usually the case. It induces a sense of calm and perhaps drowsiness, but you’ll be aware enough to respond to your provider’s questions and instructions. Typically, the effects are temporary and start dissipating an hour or two following your visit.

Who Benefits from Oral Conscious Sedation?

Many people assume that sedatives are reserved for those undergoing more complex or invasive services, but that’s not always true. This pill can help patients in a variety of circumstances, including:

• Extreme anxiety. If you’re so scared of dental care that you avoid making appointments, you put your dental health at risk. If your fear is keeping you from basic preventive care, basic fixes, or other required treatments, you might benefit from sedatives.
• Fear of needles. Local anesthetics can be injected to numb your mouth, but many patients struggle with needles and do better with a pill they can swallow.
• Sensitive gag reflex. Your periodontist might suggest medications for people with a strong gag reflex that could interfere with their procedure.
• Struggle to sit still. It’s easier to treat people who are sitting still than wiggling, antsy, or frustrated. If you have a hard time sitting in the dental chair, they might suggest a sedative.
• Other impairments. These drugs can also assist those who struggle with other mobility or cognitive challenges that make it difficult to comply with verbal instructions during their appointment.

If you’re still unsure whether you’re a good candidate for oral conscious sedation, the best way to find out is to consult your oral healthcare provider directly!

Meet the Author

Dr. Franco Cordini has more than 20 years of experience providing a variety of specialty services to improve patients’ oral health. He earned his dental degree from Creighton University School of Dentistry and then completed his extensive periodontics training at the University of Louisville. Today, he enjoys establishing lasting relationships with patients so he can quickly tailor treatment plans to meet their individual needs. Then, he combines a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate treatment results. He also offers multiple medications to help you through your visit, including oral conscious sedation. You can request an appointment on the website or call (502) 425-5010.