Oral sedation is a form of conscious sedation that we may recommend to ensure that you have a comfortable experience each time you visit our office. Administered in pill form, oral sedation is simple and easy to use. Because oral sedation is a form of conscious sedation, you will remain awake during the treatment, but you will feel more relaxed and at ease. There are many other benefits to sedation dentistry, including:

  • With oral sedation, you simply need to take a pill. It is quick and easy to use.
  • There are no needles involved.
  • It produces the necessary amnesiac effect for a comfortable experience.
  • Oral sedation typically costs less than other forms of sedation.

How Oral Sedation Works

If you and our dentist determine that oral sedation is right for you, you will be prescribed a pill that will help you relax. You will also receive instructions to take the pill before your scheduled appointment; be certain to follow the specific instructions included with your pill. It is important that you have a family member or friend drive you to and from your appointment to provide maximum safety to yourself and others. When you arrive at our office, you will be awake but extremely relaxed. You may feel drowsy, and it is not unusual for you to not remember all of the details of your appointment.

For more information about the benefits of oral sedation in Davidson, North Carolina, and how we can make your visit with Dr. Michael Wilhite more comfortable, call Davidson Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today at 704-987-2277.

FAQs About Oral Sedation

What is oral sedation?

Oral sedation uses prescribed medication taken before your appointment to help you feel more relaxed during dental treatment. Our dentist may recommend oral sedation for patients with moderate anxiety or those who want a calmer experience in the dental chair.

How does oral sedation work?

Oral sedation works by helping you feel drowsy and relaxed before treatment begins. Although you remain conscious, you may feel much calmer throughout the visit. Our dentist will provide instructions so the medication can be taken safely and effectively.

Who may benefit from oral sedation?

Patients with dental anxiety, nervousness about upcoming treatment, or difficulty relaxing during appointments may benefit from oral sedation. Our dentist will determine whether this option is appropriate based on your health history and treatment needs.

What are some of the advantages of oral sedation?

Oral sedation helps you feel relaxed during a wide variety of dental procedures. In fact, you may feel so comfortable that you do not remember a lot about your appointment. Sedation dentistry can also reduce the amount of needed local anesthetic, make the procedure go more quickly and help you experience little discomfort the day afterwards. Many patients sleep very well the evening after the procedure and wake up feeling refreshed.

How long do the effects of oral sedation last?

Oral sedation effects typically last for four to eight hours. We use some of the best sedation medication available and will create a custom sedation plan that suits your needs and the requirements for the dental procedure.

Is oral sedation safe?

Yes! Oral sedation is a very safe method for helping patients relax during dental treatments. Before your procedure, we will discuss your current health status and any medication you are taking in order to create a custom sedation plan that will not alter your medication routine.

Does oral sedation relieve dental pain?

The purpose of oral sedation is to help you feel calm and comfortable. Though some types of dental sedations have shown analgesic effects, we will still inject a local anesthetic to numb your mouth so you do not feel discomfort during a procedure.

Is oral sedation expensive?

No! We offer sedation as an amenity at our office because we want our patients to overcome their fears and feel calm and happy during dental procedures.