Oral Sedation Services

Serving Riverview, FL and all the surrounding areas

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are effective drugs in sedation dentistry that help manage anxiety and improves the overall patient experience. With proper medical supervision, it enhances patient comfort and facilitates the provision of essential dental care.

Mechanism of Action of Common Benzodiazepines

These drugs work by binding to the GABA-A receptors in the brain, enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, which inhibits neural activity. This results in decreased anxiety, improved sleep, and muscle relaxation. Chronic stress can negatively impact GABA production, making medications like Halcion, Ativan, and Diazepam are particularly valuable for those struggling with anxiety.

What is Halcion?

Halcion is a benzodiazepine primarily used as a sedative and sleeping medication. It induces a calming effect, alleviating anxiety and causing partial amnesia regarding the dental procedure. Patients remain awake but have limited awareness of the visit, making it suitable for those with moderate anxiety. Unlike general anesthesia, which renders a patient completely unconscious, allows for responsiveness while still providing significant relaxation.

Dosing Information

Halcion: Typically, 0.25 to 0.5 mg is effective for significant anxiety reduction. However, higher doses can lead to prolonged psychomotor impairment.

Other Benzodiazepines:


  • Valium (diazepam): 5-10 mg taken an 30min before the appointment for mild to moderate anxiety.
  • Ativan (Lorazepam): 1-3 mg for similar levels of anxiety, providing drowsiness but maintaining responsiveness. 20-30 minutes before appointment 

Benefits of Using Halcion, Valium, or Ativan

For many, dental anxiety can deter regular visits, jeopardizing oral health. By employing sedation techniques like Halcion, dentists can create a more comfortable environment, facilitating necessary treatments and encouraging patients to seek timely care.

A man is laying in a dental chair with his eyes closed.

Safety:

Oral sedation is generally safe . It's also important to have someone drive you home after the procedure because the sedative may impair your coordination or judgment. The effects of oral sedation can last 4-6 hours.

A red circle with a black car in it
Oral sedation dentistry uses medication taken by mouth to help patients relax during dental procedures.
Sedative drugs slow down your brain's activity, helping reduce anxiety and create a calming effect.
Yes, when administered by a trained professional and with proper screening, oral sedation is safe and effective.
Common medications include benzodiazepines like Valium, Halcion, or Ativan.
Effects typically last for several hours, depending on the dose and medication used.
Oral sedation usually makes you relaxed and drowsy but awake. You might not remember much after the procedure.
Follow your dentist’s instructions, which may include fasting for several hours before your appointment.
No, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours.
Some patients may experience drowsiness, dry mouth, or mild nausea, but these usually wear off quickly.
Patients with dental anxiety, gag reflex issues, or those undergoing lengthy procedures often benefit from oral sedation.
The dentist tailors the dosage based on your health, anxiety level, and the planned procedure.
Yes, it can be combined with nitrous oxide or local anesthesia for enhanced comfort.
Many patients have limited or no memory of the procedure due to the sedative’s amnesic effects.
Oral sedation may be used for children under careful supervision, but it depends on the child’s age and health.
Typically, patients should not eat or drink at least 6 hours prior to sedation to reduce risks.
Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or making major decisions for 24 hours after sedation.
Certain respiratory, liver, or heart conditions may limit sedation options; disclose your full medical history.
Inform your dentist about medications, allergies, past reactions to sedation, and any medical conditions.
Call our office at 813-672-1917 or book online to discuss oral sedation options and schedule your appointment.
Coverage varies; we recommend checking with your insurer, and we offer flexible payment plans.