It’s been estimated that about 15% of Americans avoid seeing the dentist because of dental fear and anxiety; that’s about 30 to 40 million people! If you have dental fears, you’re not alone, and you’re not powerless. You can stand up to those fears, and get the dental treatment you need, with oral conscious sedation. Oral conscious sedation creates a safe and comfortable dental experience for patients who have avoided the dentist out of fear in the past. Make your next dental appointment, relaxed and rewarding, with oral conscious sedation from Dr. Latner and Westside Dental Associates. Dr. Latner is a compassionate and qualified family dentist, now proudly serving patients of all ages throughout West LA and nearby communities including: Brentwood, Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, Marina Del Rey, Rancho Park, and Mar Vista.

What Happens During Oral Conscious Sedation?

You will be able to take your sedation medication about an hour before your appointment. The most commonly prescribed oral conscious sedation medications belong to the “benzodiazepine” family. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants. They’re absolutely safe, and they decrease anxiety by binding with receptors in the brain which tone down activity in the parts responsible for fear. Most patients feel calmer and more relaxed after taking sedative medication. Oral conscious sedation produces a mild or moderate sedation experience, where you will remain sedated but alert, responsive, and able to answer questions. However, you will need a friend or family member to drive you home after the appointment, as the effects of the sedatives will take a few hours to wear off.

Do You Need Oral Conscious Sedation?

A phobia is an intense and unreasonable fear. Most dental procedures aren’t painful, however, for those with dental fear and phobia, the very thought of a dental visit can be terrifying. Some patients are so frightened that they go years and years without dental care and will only see a dentist for emergencies. This pattern of behavior can wreak havoc on both oral and overall health causing gum disease, pain, and broken or unsightly teeth. Oral conscious sedation  allows fearful patients to finally receive the dental care they need to stay healthy and smiling.

West LA Oral Conscious Sedation Appointments

If you suffer from dental fear or phobia, schedule the dental appointment you need with oral conscious sedation from Dr. Latner and Westside Dental Associates. Dr. Latner is an experienced oral conscious sedation dentist, now proudly restoring smiles daily throughout West LA and the nearby communities including: Brentwood, Santa Monica, Venice, Beverly Hills, Marina Del Rey, Rancho Park, and Mar Vista.