Oral Sedation in Woodinville, WA
For patients who feel anxious about dental visits, oral sedation can make treatment a calm, comfortable experience. Dr. Tim Hung offers oral sedation at Oasis Family Dentistry to help you feel relaxed and at ease while our team takes care of your dental needs. Learn more below, and call (425) 486-9245 with any questions or to find out if oral sedation is right for you.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation is a form of conscious sedation that uses a prescribed medication, taken in pill form, to help anxious patients relax during dental treatment. You remain awake and able to respond to our team throughout your appointment, but you’ll feel calm, drowsy, and much less aware of the sounds and sensations around you. Many patients remember very little of their visit afterward.
Oral sedation is one of the sedation dentistry options we offer for patients with dental anxiety. It provides a deeper level of relaxation than nitrous oxide, making it a good choice for patients with moderate to significant anxiety or those undergoing longer procedures.
Benefits of Oral Sedation
- Quick and easy to take, with no needles
- A calm, comfortable treatment experience
- Little to no memory of the procedure for many patients
- Helps reduce a sensitive gag reflex
- Makes it possible to complete more treatment in a single visit
- Lower cost than many other sedation options
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Oral sedation may be a good fit if you feel nervous about the dentist, have had negative dental experiences in the past, have sensitive teeth or a strong gag reflex, or need extensive care such as root canal therapy, wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or multiple crowns. Dr. Hung will review your medical history and current medications to make sure oral sedation is safe for you.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Before your visit, Dr. Hung will give you detailed instructions on when and how to take your medication. It is important to follow these instructions exactly. Because the medication causes drowsiness, you must arrange for a trusted family member or friend to drive you to and from your appointment and stay with you for a few hours afterward. Wear comfortable clothing, and plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
Once the medication takes effect, you’ll feel deeply relaxed. Our team will monitor you throughout your procedure and make sure you remain comfortable. Local anesthesia is still used to numb the treatment area. Afterward, you may feel groggy for several hours. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions until the next day.
Oral sedation can help you get the care you’ve been putting off, from cleanings and exams to treatment for tooth decay or a painful toothache. Ask about payment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Sedation in Woodinville
Will I be asleep during oral sedation?
No. You’ll remain conscious and able to respond, but you’ll feel very relaxed and drowsy. Some patients doze lightly and may remember little of the appointment.
Is oral sedation safe?
Yes. When prescribed and monitored by a trained dentist after a careful review of your health history, oral sedation is very safe.
Do I need someone to drive me?
Yes. You must have a trusted adult drive you to and from your appointment, as the medication causes drowsiness.
How long does oral sedation last?
The effects typically last several hours. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
Will I still need a numbing shot?
Yes. Oral sedation relaxes you, but local anesthesia is still used to numb the area being treated. Most sedated patients barely notice it.
Can I eat before oral sedation?
Dr. Hung will give you specific instructions about eating and drinking before your appointment. Please follow them carefully.
How is oral sedation different from nitrous oxide?
Oral sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation and lasts longer. Nitrous oxide is milder and wears off within minutes, allowing most patients to drive themselves home.
Feel Calm and Comfortable at the Dentist
Find out if oral sedation is right for you. Call Oasis Family Dentistry at (425) 486-9245 or request an appointment online.