Dr. Tim Hung offers oral sedation in Woodinville, Washington, for patients who experience dental anxiety. This sedation treatment helps you feel relaxed and at ease as our dentist and team see to your dental needs. Learn more about oral sedation below and call Oasis Family Dentistry at (425) 486-9245 if you have any questions.

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Oral sedation is a mild sedation treatment offered at our office to help anxious patients feel more at ease during their dental treatment. This sedation method allows our patients to remain conscious during treatment, which helps them have a comfortable and relaxed experience. The benefits of oral sedation include:

  • Quick and easy use
  • Comfortable experience
  • Lower cost than that of other sedation options

Offered in pill form, oral sedation is taken before you arrive for your dental appointment. Our dentist will give you a list of instructions for how to take your pill, and it is important to follow these instructions exactly. Remember to have a family member or friend drive you to and from your appointment, as you may feel drowsy as the sedation takes hold. It is also not unexpected for you to remember very little of your appointment, which is why it is important that you prepare accordingly.

We invite you to contact our dental office to learn more about oral sedation and schedule an appointment with our dentist to find out if this sedation treatment is right for you. Our team is ready to answer any questions you have and happy to help as we provide you with exceptional dental care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Sedation in Woodinville

What is oral sedation?

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative pill before your dental appointment, usually about an hour prior to treatment. The medication reduces anxiety, makes you feel drowsy and relaxed, and may cause some patients to fall into a light sleep — though you can be easily awakened and remain able to communicate. At Oasis Family Dentistry, oral sedation is a popular option for patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety.

What medication is used for oral sedation?

Oral sedation typically uses a benzodiazepine medication such as triazolam or diazepam. These are safe, well-established anti-anxiety medications prescribed in doses appropriate for dental use. Our team at Oasis Family Dentistry will determine the right medication and dosage based on your health history and anxiety level.

Will I remember my appointment after oral sedation?

Many patients have little or no memory of their dental procedure after oral sedation, which is one of its biggest benefits for highly anxious patients. You will be awake and cooperative during treatment, but the amnesic effect of the medication means the experience often feels like it never happened.

Is oral sedation safe?

Oral sedation is safe when prescribed and supervised by a qualified dental professional. Our team conducts a thorough medical history review before recommending oral sedation and monitors you throughout your appointment. Local anesthesia is also used in addition to sedation to ensure you feel no pain.

Do I need someone to drive me home after oral sedation?

Yes. Because oral sedation causes significant drowsiness that can last several hours after your appointment, you must arrange for a trusted adult to drive you to and from the appointment and stay with you for several hours afterward. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery for the rest of the day.

How is oral sedation different from nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide is inhaled during the appointment and wears off quickly, allowing you to drive home. Oral sedation involves taking a pill before your appointment and produces deeper, longer-lasting relaxation. Most patients need a driver home after oral sedation. Our team will help you choose the sedation option that best matches your needs and level of anxiety.

Can I eat before oral sedation?

In most cases, you should avoid eating or drinking (other than water) for a certain number of hours before your appointment with oral sedation. Our team at Oasis Family Dentistry will provide specific pre-appointment instructions when your sedation appointment is scheduled. Call (425) 486-9245 to learn more.