Patients in the Phoenix Area Want to Know if Dental Sedation Is Safe

A number of factors can keep you out of the dental chair – a busy schedule, a physical disability that makes it difficult to sit still, or a full-blown case of dental anxiety. Dr. Sameet Koppikar of Biltmore Dental Center in Phoenix has a solution to get you back into the chair on a regular basis, and back to enjoying the appearance and wellness benefits of a healthy mouth. It’s called oral conscious sedation. The approach has been around for a while, but some patients are still uneasy with the idea. Let’s take a look at the safety and efficacy of dental sedation.

What Is Oral Conscious Sedation?

Sedation dentistry involves takes a dose of medication in pill form, usually the night before and the morning of your appointment. The drugs commonly used are diazepam (Valium), triazolam, zaleplon, lorazepam, hydroxyzine, and midazolam. Neither the clinical nor the brand names are really important. However, you should know that these medications have been used since the 1960s to relieve anxiety and induce relaxation for dental care and in other medical situations. Some also have amnesic properties, so you don’t remember much about your dental appointment.

Precautions to Ensure Your Safety

The staff has specific training in the administration of dental sedation, and only drugs that are tested, safe, and well-tolerated by the vast majority of patients are used. As your family dentist, he also knows your medical history and is vigilant for potential drug interaction. Please be sure to tell the doctor if you could be pregnant, so he may determine if dental sedation is the best choice for you and baby.

If you choose dental sedation from Biltmore Dental Center, you receive thorough pre- and post-appointment instructions for your wellbeing. You won’t be unconscious, but dental sedation will make you groggy, so you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. Once home, the effect wears off rather quickly. You will be able to return to work or normal activities the next morning.

During treatment, you are not left alone at any time and your vital signs are monitored. You are able to speak and respond to verbal cues and move or use the restroom if necessary. Be assured that the staff has emergency medical training, should an urgent situation arise.

So, is dental sedation safe? Yes, it is very safe. Much safer than neglecting regular oral care and needed dental treatment. Call Biltmore Dental Center today at (602) 704-0659 for an appointment with Dr. Koppikar. He’ll be happy to answer your questions about sedation dentistry.