What is Conscious Sedation?

Conscious sedation is a type of sedation in which the sedated individual can respond to verbal directions, but he or she feels little to no pain, and has an altered level of consciousness. This level of sedation is used for dental procedures in which it is necessary for the patient to be responsive, for minor procedures (a regular cleaning) that merit the use of general anesthesia and for procedures involving patients who cannot cooperate with care providers.

Some patients may choose sedation for reason other than fear or phobia. For example, very busy professionals, who have put off extensive dental treatment because it's inconvenient for them from a time-wise perspective. The idea of being able to do everything in one, single appointment is very appealing to them.

Another type of patient that can benefit from sedation dentistry are "avoiders". These patients won't go to the dentist, usually for reasons of fear. If you have not seen a dentist in the last 10 or 20 years, we may be speaking to you. If you experience dental anxiety, dental fear or phobia towards dentistry, sedation is a great way to get you back into an optimal state of oral health.

We welcome the opportunity to "soothe" your dental anxiety and phobia away. Call our office to schedule an appointment.