When is oral sedation helpful?
Following is helpful information about oral sedation.
What is oral sedation?
Oral sedation involves a patient taking a prescribed dose of medication in tablet form prior to his or her procedure. This medication helps relax the mind and body for increased comfort during treatment. In some cases, a dose of medication is also taken the night before a procedure to help a patient sleep. This is beneficial for people who struggle with anxiety before and during medical or dental appointments.
What types of medications are used?
The types of medications used for oral sedation are mild sedatives, normally from the benzodiazepine family of medications.
How will oral sedation make me feel?
Benzodiazepine medications help control feelings of panic and worry. They also have a relaxing effect on the body because they slow down the central nervous system. These medications also have sedating properties for many people so patients might feel groggy and have some loss of motor coordination.
Can I drive after receiving oral sedation?
No. Medications used for oral sedation can impair motor function and cognition. Those who are prescribed oral sedation will need to arrange for transportation to and from their appointments.
How do I know if I would benefit from oral sedation?
The best way to determine if you need oral sedation during your procedure is to speak with our oral surgeon. Our team might recommend this comfort amenity if you have a history of anxiety during medical and dental treatments or if you are receiving certain treatments such as dental implant placement or a bone graft.
Call Charlottesville Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center if you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation.