Conscious Sedation

Conscious sedation is a hot topic in the field of dentistry these days. A relatively new technique, the intervention provides an ideal solution for those who fear even routine trips to the dentist. It can only be administered through a registered nurse, anesthesiologist, or dentist, but it is a valuable tool for easing the stress of dental care.

Tackling Your Anxiety

If you've had a bad experience at the dentist, you know how hard it can be to schedule those routine cleanings. Just the thought of sharp objects near your mouth is enough to make some people break a sweat, never mind the more complex procedures that often follow. This fear keeps a good many people away from the dentist. For those who do make it through the door, anxiety can make the entire visit stressful and unpleasant for patient and dentist alike.

Although a skilled dentist will work to make procedures as pain-free as possible, a number of techniques may be employed to give added assistance with anxiety reduction. Most people are familiar with traditional options like local or general anesthesia, as these techniques remain industry favorites. Recently, however, conscious sedation has emerged as a valuable alternative for those with anxiety.

Conscious sedation relies on a blend of sedatives and painkillers to produce altered awareness. Patients who use this technique are able to speak, respond, and even walk around as needed throughout the dental procedure. At the same time, mild amnesia removes much of the memory of the entire experience. Thus, it is possible to obtain elaborate dental care without feeling or remembering a thing!