Conscious Sedation Dentist

Conscious sedation dentistry is one way to treat dental anxiety so you can have your dental work done.

Conscious Sedation Dentistry involves the administration of drugs (medications) that calm patients creating a drowsy, sleep-like state. It is important to understand that you are NOT asleep for Conscious Sedation Dentistry. You remain conscious during Conscious Sedation. Simply meaning, Conscious Sedation patients are:

• Conscious
• Can breathe on their own.
• Are able to respond to a question.

What Is Conscious Sedation Like?

IV Conscious Sedation and Oral Sedation, stimulate a state of deep relaxation and a sensation of not being concerned with what’s going on. During Intravenous Conscious Sedation (IV sedation) a drug, usually an anti-anxiety medication, is administered into the blood system during dental treatment. IV Conscious Sedation and Oral Sedation can be referred to as “Sedation Dentistry.”

Sedated patients are conscious, can breathe on their own, and are able to respond to a question. Remember, you are NOT asleep for Conscious Sedation Dentistry. A dentist is required to receive two days of additional training when administering pills orally. Intravenous (IV) Sedation requires at least 60 hours of training or a dentist can be trained as part of a residency program.

The methods of sedation can be achieved by:

1. Administrating oral medications.
2. Intravenous medications
3. Nitrous Oxide “laughing gas”

Using the lightest level of sedation is minimal sedation. It involves a mild sedative, such as a Valium-like medication or Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas.) This kind of sedation requires no additional training for the dentist.

When you come in for your appointment Dr. Hoffmann, Dr. Thoms, or Dr. Behl will decide which level is best for you.

Who Benefits From Conscious Sedation Dentistry?

There are a number of people who can benefit from conscious sedation dentistry. Some of these include patients with:

• Low pain threshold
• Fear and anxiety of the dentist
• Sensitive gag reflex
• Extensive treatment needs

In addition, it can benefit patients who have special needs, such as those with physical or mental disabilities. Young children can also benefit, especially if they experience anxiety and cannot fully cooperate for needed dental treatment.