Most people think of sedation dentistry as a means for a fearful patient to get needed dental treatment. Patients from Cary and Cornelius, NC, however, are discovering other situations in which oral conscious sedation is beneficial. Dr. Carl McMillan offers this option at Holistic Dental Centers.
A bit of background
Sedation dentistry refers to a variety of prescription medications that relax anxiety responses in the brain. Sedation is not a pain block, but rather a calming agent. Oral sedation is in a pill form. It is safe for most adult patients, and Dr. McMillian takes extra precautions to minimize the risk of interaction with other drugs.
Your well-being is continually monitored. You are conscious during the appointment (although some patients are so relaxed that they doze off), able to move around, and respond to verbal cues. There is some residual grogginess, so you will need a driver. Afterward, you may have little memory of treatment.
When oral conscious sedation makes sense
In addition to soothing dental anxiety, oral sedation is helpful for:
- Patients with an active gag reflex. Sedation calms sensitivity to hands or instruments in your mouth.
- Convenience. Instead of booking several appointments for a lengthy procedure or multiple treatments, sedation allows Dr. McMillan to complete care efficiently in one visit. That means less travel and missed work time for you.
- Physical disabilities. Your body relaxes, too, reducing strain on your back and lower extremities.
- Speedier healing. This level of relaxation reduces tissue trauma, for faster recovery.
- Cognitive and emotional challenges. These patients may become agitated by clinical sights and sounds, or have difficulty sitting for the duration of a dental appointment.
To find out if oral conscious sedation dentistry may be advantageous for you, schedule a consultation at Holistic Dental Centers. In Cary, NC the number is (919) 865-0700, and in Cornelius dial
(704) 765-3150
.
Dr. Luis Crespo
Connect Dr. Luis Crespo on LinkedIn
Dr. Luis Crespo, a holistic dentist with 17 years of experience, has profoundly impacted underserved communities worldwide, from Guatemala to Tibet. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from
West Virginia University in 2000 and is a member of the
International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. Dr. Crespo integrates his holistic health and nutrition expertise into his practice, emphasizing the connection between oral health and overall well-being. His bilingual skills and commitment to educating patients and promoting early dental care reflect his dedication to both public health and preventive medicine.
Dr. Erin Wilbanks
Connect Dr. Erin Wilbanks on LinkedIn
Dr. Erin Wilbanks, a holistic dentist in Cary, brings extensive experience and expertise to her practice. With a Bachelor's in Biological Sciences and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from
Louisiana State University, Dr. Wilbanks is a member of the International Academy of Medicine and Toxicology and is SMART certified. Known for her commitment to prevention and patient education, she emphasizes holistic approaches to oral health. Her dedication to her field is supported by her active involvement in the
Academy of General Dentistry and
IAOMT.