What is Oral Sedation?
Conscious sedation can help ease your mind and eliminate anxiety so you can focus on your dental health instead of any momentary discomfort. Depending on the total dose given, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill, typically Halcion, which is a member of the same drug family as Valium.
It’s usually taken about an hour before the procedure. The pill will make you drowsy, although you’ll still be awake. A larger dose may be given to produce moderate sedation. This is the type of anesthesia most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. Some people become groggy enough from moderate oral sedation to actually fall asleep during the procedure. They usually can be awakened with a gentle shake.
If you’re afraid, anxious, or apprehensive, your dentist can help you choose the right form of dental sedation for you.