Video Transcript
Hi, I’m Dr. Brian Orcutt, and I wanted to take this opportunity to talk to you about oral conscious sedation. I’ve been doing oral conscious sedation for about 15 years now. And my patients love it. Very safe, it’s very efficient, and it’s very easy too. I simply just prescribe one or two pills to my patients. They take them about an hour before they get here, and by the time that we’re ready to start the procedure, they’re practically on the verge of sleeping. Not quite, it’s called conscious sedation so that they’re still awake, and if I give them commands, they can follow them, but they’re very, very sleepy and very relaxed. One of the benefits that a lot of people don’t realize is that the next day after you get a good night of sleep, you wake up and you have almost no memory of your dental procedure at all. Patients love that, and they tell me that all the time. And the best thing about it is that it’s free; I don’t charge for it. All I do is write you a prescription, and you go pick up your prescription. And that’s it. It’s very easy. So if you have any questions about this, please give us a call. Look us up online at orcuttfamilydentistry.com, reach out to us, and ask us some questions about that. We’d love to help you find the answers to your dental anxiety. Alright, take care. Have a good day.
Treatment Redefined By Calming Sedation Options
Do you often feel anxious at the thought of visiting the dentist? Going to the dentist may not be your favorite thing, but sedation dentistry in Fair Oaks, California, can change your perspective. Sedation dental care at Orcutt Family Dentistry calms the nerves of dental-phobic patients for a positive dental experience.
If you are among the people who suffer from dental anxiety, sedation dentistry administered by Dr. Brian Orcutt and the team brings a sense of relief. This means your long battle with dental fear is finally over, and you can start enjoying dentistry once again.
Why do you have dental fear?
Do you always avoid your dentist until you have an apparent dental problem? Always having sleepless nights or sweaty palms before your dental appointment? You weren’t born that way — no one was born with dental anxiety. The following could be reasons why you have a fear of the dentist:
- Fear of dental smells, sights, noises, etc.
- Past traumatic experiences
- Low pain tolerance
- Strong gag reflex
- Embarrassment because of the state of your oral health
- Loss of control
- Viewing your mouth as a personal space, and no one else should have access
Dental-phobic patients always avoid or delay dental visits, leading to the neglect of routine dental care such as cleanings, exams, and other preventive treatments. Over time, dental avoidance results in problems such as cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. The result? These dental issues lead to more extensive and expensive restorative treatments.
How We Help You Conquer Dental Anxiety
While several sedation types exist, Dr. Orcutt offers oral conscious sedation, which involves taking a prescription pill an hour before your appointment. Pill-based sedation takes the edge off your anxiety and allows you to remain calm as the dentist works on you.
Once the medication dissolves and enters your bloodstream, it replaces the nervous feeling with a calming effect. You’ll be deeply relaxed but awake to respond to our instructions. You may doze off, but it only takes a slight nudge to awaken you. The objective of sedative pills is to calm your nerves and not to make you unconscious.
Benefits of oral sedation
Pill-based sedation offers numerous benefits. It effectively combats your dental fear, allowing you to receive the necessary dental care. Other benefits include:
- It’s easy to administer
- The sedation level can be altered to suit your needs
- It creates retrograde amnesia, so you’ll remember little about your treatment
- It allows you to lose track of time, making lengthy procedures tolerable
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who experience dental anxiety, have a strong gag reflex, struggle with sitting still for long periods, or have had traumatic dental experiences in the past. It can also be helpful for patients who need multiple procedures completed in a single visit. If you are unsure whether sedation is right for you, Dr. Orcutt is happy to talk through your concerns during a consultation.
Is oral conscious sedation safe?
Yes. Oral conscious sedation has a long, well-established safety record. Dr. Orcutt received sedation training from the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS) and completed Master-level training in both 2020 and 2022. Before recommending sedation, he will review your medical history and current medications to ensure it is appropriate for your individual situation.
Will I be unconscious during my procedure?
No. Oral conscious sedation relaxes you deeply but does not put you to sleep. You will remain conscious and able to respond to Dr. Orcutt’s instructions throughout your appointment. Some patients feel drowsy and may briefly doze off, but they are easily roused. General anesthesia is a separate process and is not the same as oral conscious sedation.
How should I prepare for a sedation appointment?
Because the medication takes effect before you arrive, you will need to arrange for a trusted adult to drive you to and from your appointment. You should also avoid eating or drinking for a few hours beforehand, depending on Dr. Orcutt’s specific instructions. Plan to rest at home for the remainder of the day after your visit.
Defeating Dental Anxiety Together
Do you think you are a good candidate for sedation dentistry? Call (916) 963-9986 to set up a consultation with Orcutt Family Dentistry. Dr. Orcutt will listen to your concerns and help decide whether sedation dentistry suits your case.