Dental phobia is one of the leading reasons that patients in the United States postpone vital dental treatments. In fact, as many as 15 percent of Americans avoid seeing their dentist because of anxiety related to dental care. Many of these fears are due to a past bad experience or misconceptions about dental treatments.
Dr. Jerry Hancock and his staff believe that dental phobia should not stand between you and excellent oral health. That is why his Nashville, TN, clinic offers oral conscious sedation. This solution can help you achieve deep relaxation in the dentist's chair. In fact, you may have no memory of treatment once the medication subsides.
The sedatives are taken about an hour before your appointment.
Ease of use: Oral conscious sedation just involves taking a pill.
No need for needles: Unlike other forms of anesthesia, oral sedation does not require intravenous administration.
Little to no memory of procedure: Patients remember little, if any, of their treatment.
Lower cost: Compared with other forms of sedation, oral sedation is very affordable.
Shorter procedure time: When you are relaxed, your doctor can treat you more efficiently.
Dr. Jerry Hancock and his staff believe that dental phobia should not stand between you and excellent oral health.
Am I a Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?
The form of sedation is administered via a pill that induces a state of relaxation. Dr. Hancock will determine your dosage based on your weight, medical history, and the length of the procedure. The medication is usually taken about an hour before treatment. Additional sedatives can be given as needed.
Patients who use oral conscious sedation remain awake, but in a state of near-sleep. After taking the pill, you may feel a tingling sensation throughout your body, and your perception of time may slow. Other effects can include a feeling of drowsiness, relaxation, and well-being. Negative emotions such as stress and anxiety subside after the sedative takes effect.
Because of the time required for the effects of the sedatives to fully wear off, patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after their procedure and plan to relax at home for the remainder of the day.
If you experience anxiety before or during dental treatments, oral conscious sedation is an effective means of achieving the relaxation necessary to undergo the dental care you need. If you would like to learn more about how oral conscious sedation can help you, contact our office online or call (615) 383-0132.