Oral-Conscious Sedation in Williston, VT

The dental industry has advanced tremendously in the last few years. However, anxiety and fear of undergoing a dental procedure still keep many people from making appointments for regular dental cleanings and exams. For this reason, dentist Dr. Lauren Shanard provides oral-conscious sedation to help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during your appointment. Anti-anxiety medications can be prescribed to be taken prior to your appointment, so you will be in a relaxed state of mind but capable of following directions. If you would like to learn more about oral-conscious sedation and your dental treatments and services at Contemporary Dental Arts, request a consultation at our Williston, VT 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 a medication for oral-conscious sedation, Dr. Shanard will need to complete a thorough consultation to determine if you're an ideal candidate. She will review your current medications and medical history to be sure you are safe to take sedation medication, and also to determine which product 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. Shanard will depend on you, your level of anxiety, your overall health, what dental work is taking place, as well as 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 procedure. Since you will need to take it before arriving, you will need to plan for a reliable adult take you to our practice. If you have chosen light oral-conscious sedation, you'll remain at ease but will still be awake and alert. With moderate sedation, you'll also be conscious, but your recollection will start to get a bit spotty. You may drift off to sleep, but should wake up easily.

Recovery will depend on the type of medication administered for the procedure. 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. Shanard 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 prior to your appointment and having a snack about an hour following your procedure. Please contact our team if you experience lingering side effects or if you have questions after your procedure.

If you carry dental insurance, our office will contact your carrier to check your coverage regarding oral-conscious sedation options. After gathering your information, we will be better able to calculate your out-of-pocket costs. If you don't have dental insurance, Dr. Shanard and our financial coordinator can go over the payment options accepted by our office that include medical financing to help make your sedation and treatment fit your budget.

Stop avoiding the dentist because of fear or anxiety with oral-conscious sedation at Contemporary Dental Arts. Schedule a consultation with Williston, VT dentist Dr. Shanard to learn more about your options for sedation. It will keep you comfortable and relaxed during dental procedures of a routine or advanced nature. She will help you find your best options so your visit to Contemporary Dental Arts is an enjoyable experience.