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Relaxation Dentistry from our Sedation Dentist

The Longview Dental Center team will always go above and beyond to provide dentistry services that ensure our patients are completely comfortable and free from stress and anxiety. We also know that there are some patients who need a little extra help remaining relaxed in our office. If you’re one of the many patients who experience dental anxiety or phobia, we offer relaxation dentistry services to keep you completely comfortable during even the most advanced procedures. Contact us to find out more about dental sedation or schedule your appointment.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Completely relaxed man undergoing oral examinationOur team provides oral conscious sedation. By taking a prescription sedative about an hour before your appointment, you’ll already feel completely at ease by the time you reach our office. Because of the long term effects and the advanced level of sedation, you’ll need to have a trusted friend or family member drive you to and from our office. Throughout your time with us, you will remain awake and able to respond to questions. However, you’ll be completely at peace, and in most cases, patients do not remember their appointment once the sedation wears away. Patients who have received oral conscious sedation should plan to resume regular daily activities between 12 and 24 hours after they take their final dose of sedative. Everyone responds differently to these sedatives, so stay conscious of how you feel. Let us know right away if you continue to feel sedated even after 24 hours or have other adverse reactions to sedation.

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

A patient under sedation while a dentist performs dental workDo you have questions surrounding the idea of sedation dentistry? You’re not alone. Most individuals who discover they need some type of dental procedure often inquire about sedation and/or anesthesia, especially if it is the first time to undergo such invasive treatment. To help ease your worries and address your concerns, your sedation dentist has compiled some frequently asked questions about the topic for you to review. Should you have additional questions, we invite you to contact our office.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Absolutely! For years, dentists have used sedation dentistry as a safe and effective way to keep patients relaxed when preparing to undergo everything from regular dental checkups and cleanings to more complex procedures. Not everyone requires it for more minor treatments; however, it is available should you express anxiety or concern about an upcoming visit.

Am I a good candidate for oral conscious sedation?

Not all individuals are eligible to receive sedation dentistry. Each person reacts to it differently, which is why you must discuss your oral and overall health and medical history with our team before any treatment is performed. This will allow us to determine if there might be anything that could cause sedation to be ineffective or dangerous. However, in most cases, if you experience any of the following, you may be eligible:

  • Dental anxiety
  • Fear of needles or shots of any kind
  • Past traumatic experience with a dentist or dental team
  • Have difficulty sitting still for an extended period of time
  • Have sensitive teeth or a strong gag reflex
  • Are preparing for a complex dental procedure

Will I remember anything from my procedure?

Sedation dentistry is designed to help you feel relaxed, comfortable, and pain-free throughout your procedure. While you will not be unconscious, you may feel as if you are going to sleep, but you will remain conscious and be able to respond to cues from your dental team. It is unlikely that you will remember much, if anything, from your visit, which is often helpful to those individuals who experience extreme dental anxiety.

What do I need to do to prepare for oral conscious sedation?

Considered to be one of the most popular methods of sedation, your dentist in Longview does not need to use needles to administer this type of treatment. Instead, you will receive a prescribed oral medication, which you will need to take before your appointment. We will instruct you as to when you should take the pill to ensure the most effective results. Our team will also provide detailed instructions regarding when you should cease eating and/or drinking before you take your oral conscious medication.

Will my dental insurance cover sedation dentistry?

If you have never received sedation dentistry in the past, you may wonder if it will be covered by your dental insurance. This is a common question and because each dental insurance company has different stipulations regarding sedation, you will need to contact an insurance representative to inquire about this aspect of treatment. If you need assistance reaching someone or would like a member of our team to work on your behalf, we will be happy to do so.