SURGICAL CARE
Oral Sedation
Prescription medication taken before treatment to help selected patients feel more relaxed during dental care.
Oral sedation uses a prescribed medication taken before your appointment, offering a middle ground between the light effect of nitrous oxide and the more closely monitored approach of IV sedation.
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SURGICAL DENTISTRY
Oral Sedation at Valencia Dental Office
Oral sedation uses a prescribed sedative medication taken before a dental procedure. The goal is to reduce anxiety and create a calmer experience while the patient remains appropriately monitored.
Because the medication is taken ahead of time and its timing matters, following your dentist’s instructions exactly is an important part of this option working as intended.
PREPARING FOR YOUR VISIT
What to Know Before You Take It
- Health history reviewYour dentist reviews your health history and current medications before prescribing.
- Timing instructionsYou are told exactly when to take the medication relative to your appointment.
- Fasting guidanceSpecific instructions about eating and drinking beforehand are provided.
- Arranging your escortA responsible adult must be arranged to bring you to and from your appointment.
WHAT TO ARRANGE BEFOREHAND
Planning Your Day Around Your Appointment
Because you won’t be able to drive yourself, plan your whole day around having a responsible adult with you before, during and after your appointment.
Following the exact timing and fasting instructions you’re given matters for both your safety and how well the medication works.
WHO SHOULD PLAN AHEAD
A Few Things To Arrange in Advance
A little planning ahead of your appointment goes a long way with oral sedation.
A responsible escort
Arrange your ride to and from your appointment before the day arrives.
Time off afterward
Plan to rest for the remainder of the day, since the medication’s effects can last for several hours.
Clear communication
Share your full medication list and health history with your dentist in advance.
HOW ORAL SEDATION WORKS
A Prescribed Approach to Relaxation
- A prescribed medicationYour dentist prescribes a sedative appropriate for you and your planned procedure.
- Taken before your appointmentThe medication is taken at a specific time before you arrive, exactly as instructed.
- Monitored during treatmentYou are monitored throughout your appointment for comfort and safety.
- A responsible escort requiredBecause the medication affects alertness, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?
When to Schedule a Visit
Oral sedation is not appropriate for every patient. Medical conditions, medication interactions, pregnancy, sleep-disordered breathing and other factors can affect candidacy.
- Dental anxiety has kept you from scheduling needed treatment
- You want a sedation option that doesn’t involve an IV
- You have a procedure coming up and want to discuss whether oral sedation fits
- You have questions about medication interactions before considering this option
Oral Sedation FAQ
- What does oral sedation involve?
- Oral sedation uses a prescribed sedative medication taken before a dental procedure. The goal is to reduce anxiety and create a calmer experience while the patient remains appropriately monitored.
- How do I know whether this treatment is appropriate for me?
- Oral sedation is not appropriate for every patient. Medical conditions, medication interactions, pregnancy, sleep-disordered breathing and other factors can affect candidacy.
- What should I expect from the treatment process?
- Your dentist reviews your health history, medications and the planned procedure before prescribing oral sedation. You must follow the exact timing and fasting instructions and arrange a responsible adult escort.
- How will I feel after taking the sedative?
- Most patients feel noticeably relaxed and drowsy; your dentist will explain what to expect based on the specific medication prescribed.
- Can I take my regular medications along with the sedative?
- This is reviewed in advance with your dentist, since some medications can interact with sedatives.
- Is oral sedation appropriate during pregnancy?
- This is evaluated individually, since pregnancy can affect candidacy for oral sedation and other treatment choices.
- How long will I feel the effects afterward?
- This varies by patient and medication; you’ll be given guidance on when it’s safe to resume normal activities.
- What if I forget to arrange a ride home?
- Your appointment may need to be rescheduled, since a responsible escort is required for your safety.
