Oral-Conscious Sedation in Gainesville, GA

No matter how technologically advanced the dental industry becomes with techniques and innovative technologies, anxiety and fear of having dental work still keep many people from making appointments. For this reason, our general dentist, Dr. Patrick B. Toms, provides oral-conscious sedation to his patient's comfort and relaxation during treatments when it is needed. Oral-conscious sedation is as simple as taking a mild sedative that is prescribed by Dr. Toms before the appointment begins. You can walk into our office at Patrick B. Toms, D.M.D. one step ahead of the game. We understand that for some patients, braving the appointment is half the battle. If you would like to learn more about oral-conscious sedation and your dental treatments and services at Patrick B. Toms, D.M.D., request a consult right away at our Gainesville, GA dental office.

In general, oral-conscious sedation can help both adults and children who have fears and anxieties about going to the dentist. Prior to being given medication for oral-conscious sedation, Dr. Toms will need to complete a thorough consultation to determine if you're an ideal candidate. He will review your current medications and medical history to be sure you are safe to take sedation medication, and also to determine which prescription will be best for your needs. Oral-sedation might not be a good option if you have respiratory or heart problems, are expecting, or have had an allergic reaction to benzodiazepines.

There are several types of sedation medications that can be used. The medication chosen by Dr. Toms will depend on how you feel, your level of anxiety, your overall health, what dental work is taking place, and the estimated amount of time your appointment will take. Your oral-conscious sedation medication will be prescribed during your consultation so that you can fill it prior to your treatment. Since you will need to take it before arriving, you will need to plan for transportation (round trip). If you have chosen oral-conscious sedation, you'll remain at ease but will still be awake and alert. With moderate sedation, you will also be conscious, but your memory of the appointment may fade. Also, some of our patients just sleep through it and wake up when it is over.

Recovery will depend on the type of medication administered. Regardless, you will need a ride home and for someone to stay with you for at least 2 – 4 hours. You won't be capable of driving a car until the following day after you've had the chance to sleep off the medication. Dr. Toms will speak with you during your consultation about the potential side effects of the specific medication prescribed for you. Most commonly, patients report headaches, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting after receiving oral-conscious sedation. The threat of vomiting and/or nausea can be minimized by consuming a light meal before to your appointment and having a snack about an hour following. Please contact our team if you experience lingering side effects or if you have questions.

If you carry dental insurance, our office will contact your provider to check your coverage regarding oral-conscious sedation options. After gathering your information, we will be able to calculate your out-of-pocket costs. If you do not have dental insurance, our billing coordinator can go over payment options accepted by our office such as financing through CareCredit®.

Oral-conscious sedation may be very beneficial for you if you are looking for an economical and convenient alternative to intravenous sedation. You may feel drowsy afterward, but the amnesic effects of the medication will keep you in a serene state of mind under Dr. Toms' care. To learn more about sedation, please schedule an appointment in Gainesville, GA today. We look forward to hearing from you at Patrick B. Toms, D.M.D.