Feel Relaxed in the Dentist's Chair
Put the days of poor oral health and aesthetically flawed smiles behind you. Now you can conquer your dental anxiety with oral conscious sedation. Dr. Royal has been providing sedation at his Vero Beach dental office for many years and can give you a chance to have a positive dental experience. As one of the only specialized sedation dentists in all of South Florida & Palm Beach County with a focus on cosmetic, implant, and restorative procedures, Dr. Royal has the experience necessary to reduce your stress and deliver great results.
To schedule an appointment with our Vero Beach sedation dentist, call (772) 778-5550.
What Is Oral Conscious Sedation?
The oral conscious sedation method involves the administration of one or two sedative pills. Prescribed by Dr. Royal and taken about 60 minutes prior to your appointment, the sedative will put you in a state of relaxation and can help you remain calm for the duration of the treatment. Many of our Vero Beach patients prefer oral conscious sedation for less lengthy treatments such as:
- Porcelain Veneers
- Fillings
- Dental Crowns
When you choose oral sedation for your dental appointment, you will need a friend or family member to drive you to and from our office to ensure your safety. If your anxiety begins the night before an appointment, we can even prescribe you an extra pill to help you rest soundly. When you arrive home after your visit, a short nap will leave you feeling refreshed and awake.
How Oral Conscious Sedation Works
Oral conscious sedation utilizes sedative medications, such as benzodiazepines or non-benzodiazepines, to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation during dental procedures. These medications work by binding to certain receptors in the brain, effectively reducing the activity in areas responsible for fear and anxiety. This allows for a calm and comfortable dental experience.
Why Choose Vero Dental Spa for Sedation Dentistry?
At Vero Dental Spa, we prioritize patient comfort and safety above all else. Here are just a few reasons why we’re the trusted choice for oral conscious sedation dentistry in Vero Beach:
- Expertise You Can Trust: Dr. Royal is certified in IV sedation, ensuring that you receive care from a highly qualified professional with extensive experience in sedation techniques.
- Comprehensive Care: From routine teeth cleanings to complex restorative procedures, we offer a full range of dental services tailored to meet your needs.
- State-of-the-Art Facility: Our modern dental office in Vero Beach is equipped with the latest dental technology to provide efficient and comfortable care.
- Personalized Attention: We take the time to understand your unique concerns and develop a sedation plan that works best for you.
- Compassionate Team: Our friendly and supportive staff is here to ensure your experience is as pleasant as possible.
Candidates for Dental Sedation
If you suffer from mild to moderate dental anxiety and want to forget most of your dental appointments, oral conscious sedation can help. A comprehensive consultation with Dr. Royal will help determine if oral or IV sedation is right for you. Many anxious patients say they normally experience:
- Claustrophobia
- Sensitive gag reflex
- Fear of injections
- Fear of pain
- Fear associated with a previous traumatic experience
Sedation dentistry is also designed to allow you to undergo multiple procedures at the same time, reducing the number of dental visits necessary, as well as downtime after visits. Contact our sedation dentist in Vero Beach today at (772) 778-5550.
Oral Conscious Sedation Process
Pre-Procedure Consultation
During the pre-procedure consultation, our Vero Beach dentist will assess your medical history, anxiety levels, and specific needs to determine the most suitable sedative and dosage for your dental procedure. Along with discussing the procedure and any pre-operative instructions, our dentist may also visually examine your oral health and inquire about any relevant dental history.
During the Procedure
Throughout the dental procedure, our dental team will closely monitor your vital signs and ensure that you remain comfortable and relaxed. They’ll use a range of techniques to keep track of your pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, allowing them to quickly respond to any changes in your condition.
We’ll also take measures to ensure your comfort and relaxation during the procedure. This may include creating a tranquil environment, using distraction techniques, and administering pain relief medications. The goal is to make your dental experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible.
Post-Procedure Care
After the procedure, you may feel groggy or experience mild side effects from the oral sedation. Make sure to arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you home after the appointment, as your ability to drive or make important decisions may be temporarily impaired.
Typically, the side effects of dental sedation dissipate within a few hours. However, if you experience any lingering effects or have concerns about your post-procedure condition, contact our dentist as soon as possible.
Types of Oral Sedatives
Oral sedatives come in various forms, each with its own unique properties and effects. The three main categories of oral sedatives are:
- Benzodiazepines: These are commonly used for oral sedation due to their anxiolytic and sedative properties. Compared to other sedatives, benzodiazepines possess a considerable safety margin (high therapeutic index). This means that they have a lower risk of causing dangerous side effects, making them a popular choice for sedation dentistry.
- Non-Benzodiazepines: These provide similar effects to benzodiazepines but may have fewer side effects and a lower risk of dependency. They can still effectively reduce anxiety and promote relaxation during dental procedures, making them a viable alternative for some patients.
- Antihistamines: These are primarily used to treat allergies and other ailments, but they can also be used as sedatives to help reduce anxiety and induce relaxation. Although their sedative effects may not be as potent as benzodiazepines or non-benzodiazepines, antihistamines can still provide a valuable option for patients in need of mild sedation during dental procedures.
Before your dental treatment, our dentist will disclose what type of oral sedative they offer.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of Oral Sedation
While oral conscious sedation is generally safe, there are still potential risks and side effects to be aware of. By adhering to our dentist’s instructions and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and effective sedation dentistry experience. The risks and side effects associated with oral conscious sedation are generally mild and short-lived.
Patients may experience:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Allergic reactions to the sedative medication
However, these side effects typically resolve within a few hours after the procedure.
Special Considerations
Some patients may require special considerations when undergoing dental sedation. Patients with the following medical conditions should be given special attention when administering oral sedation:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Respiratory issues
- Sleep apnea
- Geriatric patients
- Those with special needs
Oral Sedation Costs and Insurance Coverage
Oral sedation costs can range from $150 to $500 per appointment. Insurance coverage for sedation dentistry varies, with some plans offering coverage if it’s deemed medically necessary. Contacting your insurance provider to understand your coverage for oral sedation, and discussing payment options with our dentist is vital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you feel pain while under oral conscious sedation?
Oral conscious sedation doesn’t cause pain. Patients remain calm and relaxed during the procedure, and they may not even be aware of what is happening. Minor discomfort may still be felt, but this can easily be forgotten due to the sedative effect.
How long does oral sedation take to wear off?
Oral sedation can take two to eight hours to wear off, depending on the type of drug used. Amnesia is also a common side effect.
Can children receive oral conscious sedation?
Yes, oral conscious sedation can be a suitable option for children with severe dental anxiety. Dr. Royal will evaluate your child’s needs and determine if pediatric sedation is appropriate.
Schedule Your Dental Appointment Today!
If you have trouble visiting the dentist without experiencing anxiety and stress, it’s time to ask for our help. With sedation dentistry, Dr. Royal can give you a second chance at a beautiful smile, while keeping you safe and comfortable. Contact our Vero Beach dentist today at (772) 778-5550 to learn more about oral conscious sedation.
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3036 20th St,
Vero Beach, FL 32960- (772) 778-5550
Working hours
- Monday: 8am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
- Wednesday: 8am - 5pm
- Thursday: 8am - 5pm
- Friday: 8am - 1pm
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed