Oral Sedation (Sleep/Twilight Dentistry) in Denver, CO

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Oral Sedation (Sleep Dentistry)

If you have a fear of needles, cringe at the sounds in a dental office, are immune to the numbing effects of local anesthetics or have sensitive teeth, you might be a candidate for oral sedation dentistry. Imagine having your dental procedures completed while you nap comfortably with little memory of the procedure afterwards. Oral sedation dentistry is not for everyone, but for those who have been avoiding the dentist due to fear, paranoia or discomfort, this method can be extremely beneficial. Oral sedation is an excellent option for patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety.

If you have a fear of needles, cringe at the sounds in a dental office, are immune to the numbing effects of local anesthetics or have sensitive teeth, you might be a candidate for oral sedation dentistry. Imagine having your dental procedures completed while you nap comfortably with little memory of the procedure afterwards. Oral sedation dentistry is not for everyone, but for those who have been avoiding the dentist due to fear, paranoia or discomfort, this method can be extremely beneficial.

With oral sedation, medications are crushed into a powder and placed under your tongue, then absorbed into your bloodstream to induce a state of deep relaxation and a feeling of not being bothered by what is going on. Many times patients recall little if any of what happened during the procedure. Upon completion of your treatment, we will stay with you until you are ready to go home with a companion.

Our dental office also uses oral sedation for the high anxiety patient, lengthy treatments and oral surgery procedures. Oral sedation is a pill that induces relaxation and sleepiness. The level of sedation is titrated to effect based on the patients response. A consultation with the dentist is necessary to determine if oral sedation would be right for you.

ADVANTAGES TO ORAL SEDATION:

  • The patient has the advantage of sedation while avoiding the higher fees associated with an IV sedation.
  • It is administered by mouth, making it much easier.
  • It is generally safer and easier to monitor.
  • Almost all people respond favorably to oral sedation and remember very little of their appointment.

WHAT ARE THE ORAL SEDATION MEDICATIONS USED?

The most common drug used in dental sedation are benzodiazepines. Triazolam, lorazepam and diazepam remain the most commonly used benzodiazepines for oral sedation. The type of oral sedation used is a decision between you and your dentist and depends on many factors.

PHARMACOLOGY OF BENZODIAZEPINES

All benzodiazepines possess antianxiety, partial or total loss of memory, promote calming effects or induce sleep, reduce muscle contraction and control or prevent convulsions. Their effects on the central nervous system (CNS) and their pharmacological properties are well suited for their use in dentistry. The amnestic effects of benzodiazepines make them ideal for sedation during stimulating or painful portions of dental procedures

I had a long overdue deep cleaning, root canal/crown, AND fillings within a month. Dr. Thurman, Morgan, Kathy and staff were very attentive and kind with not ONLY the procedures and explanations but with checking up on me after the root canal. Also great at helping me figure out my insurance coverage and payments. Dental Elements is GREAT.

- Steve

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