Oral Sedation
Do you experience high levels of anxiety when visiting the dentist? You may be a candidate for Sedation Dentistry. Dr. Ord is registered (ADA&C Modality 3) to administer oral conscious sedation. In addition, Dr. Ord may also use Nitrous oxide with or without the use of oral drugs.
Sedation Dentistry
Advantages to patients include:
- Treatment is completed when you are in a more relaxed mood.
- You may have less difficulty sitting through a lengthy procedure.
- Multiple treatments can occur during the same visit.
- Less discomfort after treatment.
Anti-Anxiety Pills
The most commonly prescribed dental related drugs that treat anxiety belong to the “benzodiazepine” family. These drugs decrease anxiety by binding and toning down activity within “fear” receptors in the brain.
Dr. Ord will consult with you
When meeting with Dr. Ord, please let him know if sedation may be something you wish to have. He will discuss with you various options as well as review your medical history and the protocols that we follow to ensure a smooth appointment. You should not take any sedative drugs on your own before dental appointments without prior knowledge and discussion with Dr. Ord.
Generally we have you come for a morning appointment where you will sit and relax for an hour after Dr. Ord gives you an oral sedative. At the end of that hour, we begin your treatment, giving more drug or nitrous gas if needed until treatment is complete. A responsible person is required to accompany you after treatment to transport you home and monitor you. You are not to do anything responsible for the remainder of the day. Dr. Ord gives full post-treatment instructions at the appointment.
Oral conscious sedation is effective and predictable for the great majority of patients. Hard to freeze patients are much more likely to freeze well with oral conscious sedation. An added bonus is that often patients don’t remember much or any of their appointment. Please ask any of our team if oral conscious sedation is an option for you.