5 Oral Drugs Commonly Used in Sedation Dentistry

Various oral sedatives have established efficacy and safety for managing fear and dental anxiety.

Anxiety and fear of going to the dentist persist despite the advancements in modern dentistry. Fortunately, oral sedatives in sedation dentistry have established efficacy and safety for managing dental anxiety. Oral sedatives can keep the patient awake while still having the desired calming effect.

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Searching for a new dental clinic is challenging for someone who has dental anxiety, fear, and traumatic experiences in a dental chair. The staff and doctors at the Dental Anesthesia Center were immediately very welcoming. Dr. Thoms put together a very detailed plan to repair and replace the previous work that I had in the past that was now causing problems. Putting my faith in him was the best thing that I could have done for my situation. I am more than completely satisfied with all of the extensive dental work that I’ve had with Dr.Thoms. I had my fourth sleep dentistry experience yesterday and I’m very happy with my results. I highly recommend this practice and truly want to give them more than five stars! Thank you for giving me back my health and confidence. I adding to this post because of my visit today with the best dental hygienist Delaina and my exam with Dr. Biehl. I have truly never been to such a caring and supportive dental group. Everyone is always conscientious of my needs and knows that I have issues with anxiety. I am always calm when I am sitting in the chair because of their kindness. I am so pleased with the Dental anesthesia center. There needs to be more than five stars. Thank you, everyone.

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There are many types of sedation used in sedation dentistry, ranging from mild sedation administered through a breathing mask to general anesthesia administered intravenously. There is a range of oral sedatives between these two options that can keep the patient awake while still having the desired calming effect.

If you are not sure what substances are used during sedation dentistry, here is a list of the most common oral drugs that a sedation dentist may prescribe for your dental treatment.

Midazolam (Versed)

Midazolam is the most commonly used drug in oral sedation dentistry, and it is generally considered very safe, inducing only a mild form of sedation. One precaution usually required when administering midazolam is to reschedule patients with respiratory infections for the day of the intervention, as this drug has a greater impact on the respiratory tract than on the circulatory system.

Diazepam (Valium)

One of the drugs almost everyone has heard about is diazepam (Valium). It is used in various medical interventions, including as an oral sedative for dental surgery. The time it takes for diazepam to remain in a 50% concentration in the patient’s system is longer than with other drugs, making it the preferred choice for extended, complex dental operations.

Triazolam (Halcion)

For patients who have a hard time going to the dentist because of their associated anxiety, triazolam is often the doctor’s choice. Primarily a drug that fights insomnia, it has an effect on the patient’s anxiety level and helps them go through the procedure without remembering it afterward, which allows them to be unaffected by their dental anxiety and come back next time.

Lorazepam (Ativan)

Another benzodiazepine with amnesic properties, like diazepam, lorazepam is very useful in patients with anxiety, allowing them to go through their dental treatment without the effects of their anxiety.

Hydroxyzine (Vistaril)

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that also acts on the patient’s anxiety levels. It is used short-term to treat anxiety or help a patient feel sleepy or relaxed before a dental procedure.

As you can see, there are many drug options if your St. Louis sedation dentist recommends oral sedation for your dental procedure. Which drug will be chosen depends on how long it takes for the medicine to get out of your system, your allergies and sensitivities, and what is needed from the sedation itself.

St. Louis Sedation Dentistry

For over 30 years, the Dental Anesthesia Center has combined sleep dentistry and cutting-edge technology to help patients overcome the fear and health issues that have prevented them from seeking dental care. We work hard to make you feel at ease by providing exceptional patient care in a relaxed, convenient atmosphere.

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