Oral Conscious Sedation Can Ensure More Comfortable Treatment
Enteral, or oral conscious sedation, is a form of sedation that uses an orally administered sedative that is usually combined with nitrous oxide.
While using enteral sedation your body systems remain normal and you are able to breath on your own. Many patients experience some amnesia effect and don’t remember much of the dental visit.
With Enteral Conscious Sedation you will feel a deep relaxation and many people fall asleep. You will still be able to speak and respond to instructions.
The Medications given for sedation usually include a category of drugs that are similar to Valium such as Halicon (triazolam) and are very safe. Not only do these drugs provide a sedative effect but also as mentioned above provide some degree of amnesia.
Enteral Conscious Sedation is often called Sedation Dentistry or Relaxation Dentistry.
Who Should Consider Conscious Sedation?
Anyone who has anxiety or fear of dentistry is a great candidate for sedation. Those with severe anxiety would be better served by IV Sedation because it can provide deeper and more predictable sedation. Also, people who are needing long dental appointments may opt for enteral sedation to keep them relaxed during the long visit. So if nitrous doesn't provide the proper level then Enteral sedation may work very well for you. Enteral Sedation will help most patients reduce stress, fear, and anxiety associated with dental work to acceptable levels.
Advantages of Oral Sedation:
- Easy to administer: Swallow a small pill
- It is safe and easy to monitor
- Works well for most people
- Low cost
Disadvantages of Oral Sedation:
- The level of Sedation is not easily changed
- Someone must drive you to and from your dental appointment
- There is no analgesic (pain relief effect)
- If the sedation level is not sufficient then dental work may need to be postponed and IV sedation considered
How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Work?
- Making your first appointment–Call (972) 618-5000 to schedule your appointment today.
- Welcoming visit– We gather information regarding your health and discuss with you your wants and desires. If you’re comfortable, we’ll take x-rays and look in your mouth. But you will never be judged or embarrassed.
- Preparing for your sedation visit– We’ll give you a prescription for a sedative to take when you arrive at the office. Don’t forget to bring your medication.
- Arriving for treatment– Your companion will bring you to the office. Nitrous Oxide will be provided to enhance your sedation. Your experienced sedation team will monitor you throughout your entire visit.
- Going home with your new smile– Your companion will take you home and stay with you until you’re completely recovered from your sedation medication.
- The next day– Most patients feel no residual effects from the sedation and you’ll be pleased that you were able to get the dentistry you needed with much less stress
- You should not operate a motor vehicle for 24 hours after receiving Oral Conscious Sedation
Comparison of Sedation Types
| Chance of “waking up” or being alert during procedure | You will be alert during procedure but feel woozy | Yes | No |
| Best Use | Mild anxiety or fear; any length appointment | Mild to moderate fear or anxiety; short to medium length appointments | Moderate to severe fear or anxiety, medium to long length appointments |
| Medication | Nitrous Oxide Only | Halcion, or similar sedative drug, plus Nitrous Oxide | IV administered medications |
| Monitoring | BP, pulse, respiratory rate monitored by Dentist | BP, pulse, respiratory rate monitored by Dentist | Pulse oximetry, BP, pulse, respiratory rate monitored by Anesthesiologist |
| Effects on Gag Reflex | None | Reduction in gag reflex | No gag reflex |
| Effects on memory of appointment | None | Moderate reduction of memory of appointment | No memory of appointment |
| Six hour fasting food, no liquids 2hr prior to appointment | No | Yes | Yes |
| Need adult responsible party for ride home and recovery | No | Yes | Yes |
| Recovery period | 20 minutes | 6-8 hours | 2-4 hours |
| Medically compromised patient | Yes, depends on medical condition | No | Yes, Medical Doctor Anesthesia Certified present |
| Age restrictions | All ages | 18+ | All ages determined by Anesthesiologist |
| Cost | $ | $$ | $$$ |
