New River Valley Dental Care, Christiansburg, VA offers oral sedation.

We understand that some people are nervous or anxious about dental procedures. We want you to be as relaxed and comfortable as possible, whether you are having a routine cleaning performed or undergoing more complex treatments. Oral Sedation can be a great option for patients with dental anxiety. It is safe and effective and allows you to get the treatment you need.

Oral sedation could be the solution you need to make you feel more comfortable during your dental visit. Find out more about the sedation options, their effects, and how they can improve your dental experience.

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What is a Oral sedation?

Oral Sedation uses medication to relax patients during dental procedures. The medication calms anxiety and makes dental treatments more comfortable, without the need for needles or IV lines. Patients with mild to moderate anxiety can benefit from oral sedation. They will still be awake, but they'll feel relaxed and at ease.

The medication usually works by affecting your central nervous system and producing a calming affect. You will be able to follow the instructions of the dentist, but you will also feel relaxed.

There are different types of oral sedation.

You can choose from different levels of oral sedation, depending on what you need:

Minimal Sedation. It is the mildest form of oral sedation. The patient remains awake and alert, but feels relaxed. This is the perfect solution for patients who feel mildly nervous or anxious about dental visits.
Moderate Sedation. Moderate sedation, also known as "conscious sedation," allows patients to achieve a deeper level of relaxation while still being able to follow simple instructions and respond to verbal commands. Patients usually experience a sense of calm and lack of memory of the procedure.
Deep Sedation. Deep oral sedation is used when patients require a greater level of sedation. You may be awake but feel so relaxed you could fall asleep. This is especially useful for long or complex procedures.

Oral Sedation: Benefits

1. Reduce Anxiety

Oral sedation is a great option for patients who have dental phobias or anxiety in general about going to the dentist. It allows them to remain calm and relaxed throughout the entire procedure. This is a great option for people who are nervous about dental procedures, noises or needles.
2. No Needles or IVs

The use of oral sedation can eliminate the fear that many patients have about needles and IV lines. The sedation can be taken in pill form, so there is no need for an invasive procedure.
3. Improved Comfort

You will be more relaxed during your dental treatment because the medication relaxes. This is especially useful for long or invasive procedures, where the patient may otherwise feel restless or uncomfortable.
4. Memory loss of the procedure

Oral sedation has been reported to cause patients to have little or no memory of their procedure. It can reduce anxiety and make the procedure less painful.
5. Quick Recover

Oral sedation is usually faster to recover from than other forms of sedation. After the procedure, most patients are back to normal in a matter of hours. They can resume their daily routines with minimal downtime.

What is the process of oral sedation?

Oral sedation starts with a consultation by one of our dental professionals. We will do the following during this appointment:

Assess Your Health History. We will discuss your medical history, including any conditions that may interact with the sedation drug.
Sedative. We will prescribe you a sedative after determining oral sedation to be the best option for you. It is usually a pill (e.g. Xanax or Ativan) that you take prior to your appointment.
The Appointment. You will take your prescribed sedative 30-60 minutes prior to your appointment. As the medication takes effect, you'll feel relaxed and calm. Patients may feel slightly drowsy, or even lightheaded. However, they remain alert and responsive.
The Procedure. You will still be able communicate with your dentist during the procedure. However, the sedation will block out any feelings of anxiety, stress or discomfort. The majority of patients feel that the procedure was quick.
Post-Procedure Care. You will be closely monitored after the procedure until the sedation has worn off. You should be accompanied home by someone else, as the effects of the medication may last for a few hours after the appointment. After a few days, most patients are back to their normal selves. However, it is still recommended that you rest the remainder of the afternoon.

Oral Sedation: Who can benefit?

The benefits of oral sedation are numerous.

Patients With Dental Anxiety. If you are anxious about your dental visit, oral sedation may help to calm down your nerves.
Patients Undergoing Long Procedures. If you have to undergo a complex or long dental procedure, an oral sedation may make it easier for you to tolerate.
Patients who have a Strong Gagging Reflex. Sedation is a good option for patients with a strong gag reaction. It can make the treatment more comfortable and less stressful.
Patients With Special Needs. Oral Sedation is also beneficial to patients with special needs, who may find it difficult to sit still during longer procedures or experience increased anxiety when visiting the dentist.

Aftercare and Recovery

Recovery from oral sedation can be quick. However, there are some important instructions for aftercare:

Avoid Driving: You should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for 24 hours following oral sedation.
Rest: It is important to take a rest after the procedure, as you may feel drowsy or sleepy for several days.
Avoid Alcohol: Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours following oral sedation.
Eat soft food: If you have had a dental treatment, you should stick to eating soft foods until your recovery is complete.

After the effects of sedation have worn off, most patients are back to normal.

Why choose New River Valley Dental Care for Oral Sedation?

At New River Valley Dental Care we are proud to offer compassionate, personalized dental care. Our team will ensure that you are comfortable and safe throughout your dental appointment. Consider us for all your oral sedation requirements:

Caring and Experienced Team: Our dental professionals are experienced in oral sedation. They will help you to feel comfortable during your appointment.
Personalized treatment plans: Our sedation options are tailored to your needs and preferences, providing the best experience possible.
State of the Art Facilities: We have the most advanced dental technology and follow strict safety protocols for your comfort and wellbeing.

Book Your Consultation Now

Contact New River Valley Dental Care at Christiansburg VA if you would like to learn more about oral sedation, or schedule your next dental visit with sedation. Our professional and friendly team will ensure that you have a stress-free and comfortable dental experience.

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