Sedation Dentistry – Weatherford, TX

Remain at Ease During Your Routine Dentistry

Are you one of millions of other Americans who avoid going to the dentist entirely because of anxiety or fear? Whether you avoid visiting because of a traumatic experience as an adult or because of severe dental-related discomfort, you should know that Dr. Novak and Dr. Johannsen have a solution. Sedation dentistry is designed to keep patients of all levels of fear of dentistry calm and at ease, no matter what. We keep a fun and friendly atmosphere at Beacon Dentistry of Weatherford, so give us a call and we’ll help you get what you need, using sedation dentistry in Weatherford, TX to achieve positive oral health!

Why Choose Beacon Dentistry of Weatherford for Sedation Dentistry?

  • Fun and Light-Hearted
    Dental office
  • Simple and Effective
    Oral Conscious Sedation
  • Caring & Dedicated
    to Your Comfort

Oral Conscious Dental Sedation

Man holding an oral conscious sedation dentistry pill

This sedative is ideal for those with mild to moderate levels of anxiety or fear. Taken orally, oral conscious sedation is designed to make patients feel relatively at ease within minutes. What would normally be a visit filled with anxiety is instead calm and relaxing, so you can get the treatments you need done. You’ll still be able to communicate with our team, after all, it is called “conscious” sedation for a reason. We ask that you have someone drive you from the dental office to ensure your safety as the effects can take some time to wear off.

What is Oral Conscious Sedation?

Woman holding a pill

For patients who are nervous, anxious, or have a strong gag reflex, oral conscious sedation is often an ideal solution. There are no needles or masks involved. Once we have reviewed your medical history, medications, and any allergies that you have, we can determine whether oral conscious sedation is a good option for you. If so, your dentist will prescribe you a small pill that needs to be taken before your appointment. The effects are long-lasting and will kick in by the time your treatment begins.

How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Work?

Woman relaxed in dental chair

Once the effects kick in, you will feel deeply relaxed and calm. Patients often don’t even remember their visit afterward. You will remain conscious during the procedure, so you can answer questions and respond to instructions but will remain relaxed. We will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure that you are safe. The effects of the drug will linger, so you should arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you to and from your appointment.

Are You a Good Candidate for Oral Conscious Sedation?

Woman nervous in the dental chair

Oral conscious sedation is very popular. It is particularly beneficial for patients who:

  • Suffer from dental anxiety or fear
  • Have a sensitive gag reflex
  • Are receiving multiple treatments at once
  • Have difficulty sitting still
  • Struggle to become numb with local anesthesia
  • Have had negative past dental experiences

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

a woman resting after undergoing oral conscious sedation

Whether you typically feel nervous or scared to visit your dentist or you need to undergo lengthy, complicated dental procedures, our team can offer sedation dentistry to help you relax. By prescribing you oral conscious medication, you’ll be able to get the treatment you need stress-free! However, we understand that you may want to know more about your options before committing completely. To help you, we’ve listed several of our most commonly asked questions about sedation dentistry from patients in Weatherford. Keep reading or call us today to schedule your consultation.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is typically safe for most people, but our team will still need to check several factors before moving forward with your treatment. To determine if this option is safe for you, we’ll need to thoroughly review your medical history as well as any current medications you might be taking (over-the-counter and prescribed). This is to ensure that there won’t be any negative side effects once you’ve taken your oral conscious pill. While you’re sedated and undergoing your procedure, our team will closely monitor your vitals to ensure you’re completely safe while getting your dental treatment done.

Will I Remember Anything with Dental Sedation?

Although you’ll technically remain awake with oral conscious sedation, you likely won’t remember much of your dental appointment. This is because the medication will place you in an extremely relaxed state where you’ll feel calm, comfortable, and even euphoric. Most patients feel as though they’ve drifted off to sleep, though a gentle nudge will be enough for you to wake up. You’ll still be able to respond to simple commands and questions, but you’ll effectively bypass any feelings of discomfort or anxiety during your visit.

How Long Does Dental Sedation Last?

In many cases, the effects of oral conscious sedation pills can typically remain in effect for several hours after your appointment is over or even the rest of the day. This is because this medication is more powerful than other minor forms of sedation, such as “laughing gas.” That’s why you’ll need to arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you to and from your appointment, and you’ll want to avoid operating heavy machinery for 24 hours following your visit.

Is Sedation Dentistry Covered by Insurance?

Many dental insurance companies consider sedation dentistry as a privilege or “luxury” service, similar to cosmetic dentistry, so you won’t expect them to cover the cost of this treatment. Still, there might be exceptions as in the case of patients with disabilities (such as autism, cerebral palsy, or Parkinson’s) that can make getting dental treatment nearly impossible without sedatives.

Another exception where insurance might cover this form of dentistry is if you require a complex procedure, like multiple tooth extractions. Other services like fillings and root canals are classified as “routine treatments,” so this might not apply to them. Since insurance policies can vary greatly, it’s important to discuss your plan with your provider to understand the details and make the most of your benefits. You can also speak with our team for help if necessary.