Overview
The dental industry has advanced tremendously in the last few years. However, anxiety and fear of undergoing a dental procedure still stops many people from making appointments for regular dental cleanings and exams. For this reason, family dentist Dr. Huy Tran provides oral-conscious sedation to help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during your appointment. Anti-anxiety medications can be prescribed to be taken prior to your appointment, so you will be in a relaxed state of mind but capable of following directions. To hear more about oral-conscious sedation and your dental treatments and services at My Island Dental, request a consult right away at our Merritt Island, FL dental office.
Best Candidates
In general, oral-conscious sedation can help both adults and children who have fears and anxieties about going to the dentist. Prior to being given a medication for oral-conscious sedation, Dr. Tran will sit through a thorough consultation to establish whether you’re an ideal candidate. He will review your current medications and medical history among other factors to be sure you are safe to take sedation medication as well as which product will be best for your needs. Oral-sedation might not be a good option if you have respiratory or heart problems, are expecting, or have had an allergic reaction to benzodiazepines previously.
What To Expect
There are several types of sedation medications that can be used. The medication chosen by Dr. Tran will depend on you, your amount of anxiety, your overall health, what dental work is taking place, as well as the estimated amount of time your appointment will take. Your oral-conscious sedation medication will be prescribed during your consultation so that you can fill it prior to your procedure. Since you will need to take it before arriving, you will need to arrange to have a reliable adult take you to our practice. If you have chosen light oral-conscious sedation, you’ll remain relaxed but will still be conscious and alert. With moderate sedation, you’ll also be conscious, however your memory of what took place will start to get a bit spotty. You may drift off to sleep, but should wake up easily.
Recovery
Recovery will depend on the type of medication administered for the procedure. Regardless, you will need a ride home and for someone to stay with you for 2 – 4 hours afterward. You won’t be capable of driving a car until the following day after you’ve had the chance to sleep off the medication. Dr. Tran will speak with you at your initial consultation about the potential side effects of the specific medication prescribed for you. Usually, patients report headaches, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting after receiving oral-conscious sedation. The threat of vomiting and/or nausea can be reduced by consuming a light meal prior to your appointment and having a snack about an hour following your procedure. Contact our team if you experience lingering side effects or have cause for concern after your procedure.
Insurance Coverage
If you carry dental insurance, our office will contact your carrier to check your coverage regarding oral-conscious sedation options. After gathering that information, we will be better able to estimate your out-of-pocket costs. For individuals without dental insurance, Dr. Tran can go over the payment options accepted by our office, which include medical financing to help make your sedation and treatment fit your budget.
Sedation Options for Anxiety
Stop avoiding the dentist because of fear or anxiety with oral-conscious sedation at My Island Dental. Schedule a consultation with Merritt Island, FL dentist Dr. Tran to learn more about your options for sedation to keep you comfortable and relaxed during dental procedures of a routine, or advanced nature. He looks forward to working with you to find your best options so your visit to My Island Dental is an enjoyable experience.
