Sedation Dentistry

Oral Sedation Dentistry

At Dr. Korol Dental, we use oral medications to help our patients relax during their dental procedures. This is typically administered in-office and wears off a few hours after your procedure.

Whether you require a root canal or a simple extraction, oral sedation dentistry allows dentists to create a safe and comfortable dental experience for patients.

How does oral sedation dentistry work?

Oral sedation dentistry helps relax patients by slowing the action of the central nervous system. Patients remain aware of their surroundings but are less responsive to external stimuli such as the sound of the drill of the smell of materials.

Do I need to prepare for the sedation visit?

Your dentist may prescribe a sedative to take the night before your extraction or other treatment. This is to ensure you have a good night’s sleep and wake up relaxed. You should NOT drink/eat for at least 6 hours prior to your appointment unless otherwise directed by your dentist.

What happens on the day of the treatment?

You will need a responsible adult to bring you to the office the day of your treatment. Additional medications will be provided to create the ultimate relaxation experience. Our experienced sedation dentistry team will monitor you throughout the visit to ensure your safety and comfort.

What will I experience after taking a sedative?

With mild-moderate sedation, you will remain alert and responsive but feel much calmer and more relaxed.

What will the recovery be like?

Prior to your treatment, you will need a responsible adult (friend or family member) to drive you to and from your dentist appointment.

Additionally:

• Be sure to stay hydrated and drink lots of fluid after the treatment
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after treatment
• For short appointments such as extractions, you may need to take half a day off work.
• For more extensive treatment, consider taking the whole day off.

Am I a Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?

Every patient is different and while your procedure alone might not call for sedation, it can be beneficial to both you and your dentist to pursue your sedation dentistry options.

Typically, sedation dentistry IS RECOMMENDED for patients who have:

• Severe anxiety (specifically related to dental procedures such as root canals or extractions)
• A strong gag reflex
• Jaw soreness
• Difficulty sitting still for long periods of time
• Prior traumatic dental experiences

However, sedation dentistry is not suitable for all patients and IS NOT recommended for those who have:

• A heart condition
• Negative reactions to sedatives
• Certain medical allergies
• Respiratory conditions

Before considering sedation dentistry, it is very important to book a consultation with a qualified dentist as they can best advise whether or not sedation is the right option for you.