Oral Sedation

Are you afraid of going to the dentist? Oral sedation can help you overcome your dental anxiety so you can get the treatment you need.

Dental fear is a common problem. Some studies estimate that nearly 75% of Americans experience some sort of fear about going to the dentist. 25% are dental phobic, which means they won’t go to the dentist unless they have a dental emergency.

Oral sedation (also referred to as oral conscious sedation) can help you feel calmer during your dental visit. You’ll be fully conscious, but more relaxed and at ease.

How Does It Work?

Oral sedation is typically administered as a pill. You take it about an hour prior to your procedure so you can feel less anxious and less apprehensive.

You may experience different levels of relaxation depending on your dose. With a minimal dose, you’ll be awake but relaxed. With a more moderate dose, you will be awake, but you may not remember much about the procedure. Dr. Blevins will determine what dose is right for you and help you set your expectations for what you will experience during the procedure.

Although you will be awake during and after your procedure, you will still be too groggy to drive. Make sure you have someone to take you home after your appointment if you choose to undergo oral sedation.

When Is Oral Sedation Used?

At Blevins Dentistry, oral sedation has helped our patients feel more comfortable during a variety of procedures, including:

• Root canal therapy
• Tooth extraction
• Dental implants
• Bone grafts
• Gum lifts
• Biopsies
• Crown lengthening

Is Oral Sedation Right for You?

It’s normal to feel a little nervous about dental appointments, but if you find yourself avoiding the dentist due to your fears, it may be time to consider oral sedation.

If you can relate to any of these statements, oral sedation may be right for you:

• “I suffer from extreme anxiety or fear during or prior to dental appointments.”
• “Numbing isn’t very effective or doesn’t last very long for me during dental appointments.”
• “I have a severe gag reflex that makes it more difficult for the dentist to complete procedures.”
• “I am getting multiple procedures done in one appointment.”

Oral sedation is a safe way to feel relaxed and at ease at your next dental appointment. Don’t put yourself through another uncomfortable dental visit again—speak with our dentist about oral sedation.

Relax With Oral Sedation

Dr. Blevins is a Mullins, SC, sedation dentist who offers oral sedation to patients with dental anxiety or dental phobia. Call Blevins Dentistry today at (843) 561-4039, or contact us online to schedule an appointment.