
Nov
Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh provides expert care for patients undergoing root canal treatments and other endodontic procedures at Augusta Endodontic Center in Augusta, GA. Conscious sedation, a safe and efficient way to reduce anxiety, is used throughout various procedures to guarantee the patient’s comfort. During therapy, patients can stay awake but at ease thanks to this type of sedation. “What are the risks of conscious sedation?” is a question that some patients might be worried about. Here are some commonly asked concerns concerning conscious sedation and the risks involved to help provide clarification.
Conscious sedation is a type of sedation that helps patients feel calm and relaxed during dental procedures. Administered either through oral medication or IV, it allows patients to remain awake, responsive, and able to follow instructions while significantly reducing anxiety and discomfort. The sedative wears off relatively quickly, and recovery is typically smooth. Conscious sedation is commonly used for endodontic procedures, making it a reliable option for patients at Augusta Endodontic Center.
While conscious sedation is generally considered safe, especially when administered by experienced professionals like Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh at Augusta Endodontic Center, there are some potential risks. These can include mild side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, or nausea, which typically resolve quickly. Rarely, patients may experience more serious complications, like an allergic reaction or difficulty breathing. However, the dental team carefully monitors these rare instances.
Conscious sedation is safe for most patients, but certain medical conditions or medications may affect its suitability. During your consultation, Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh will review your medical history, current medications, and overall health to ensure that conscious sedation is the right choice. Patients with certain heart, lung, or kidney conditions, as well as those who are pregnant, may need to explore alternative options. It’s essential to be upfront about any health concerns to minimize risks.
No, driving after receiving conscious sedation is not recommended. Although the sedative effect wears off relatively quickly, it may still affect your coordination, judgment, and reflexes for several hours after the procedure. Patients should arrange for a responsible adult to drive them home and, ideally, stay with them for a few hours until the effects completely subside. Following this guideline helps ensure safety post-treatment.
Following your endodontist’s pre- and post-procedure instructions is important to minimize any risks associated with conscious sedation. Before your appointment, Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh will advise you on what to eat and drink and any medications to avoid. After your procedure, you’ll be monitored for a short time to ensure there are no immediate complications. Patients are encouraged to rest, avoid strenuous activity, and closely follow any aftercare instructions to promote a smooth recovery.
At Augusta Endodontic Center in Augusta, GA, Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh and his team are committed to making your endodontic procedure as comfortable as possible. If you have more questions about the risks of conscious sedation or if you’d like to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (706) 800-9118. We are happy to answer your questions and help you feel at ease with your treatment plan!
Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh has over
20 years of experience in dentistry. An alumnus of the Medical College of Georgia’s Schools of Dentistry
and Allied Health and Kennesaw State University, he practiced as a General Dentist for
four years before specializing in endodontics. He founded Augusta Endodontic Center to fulfill the
endodontic needs of patients in the area.
Dr. Ngoh is a member of the American Association of Endodontists, American Dental
Association, Christian
Medical and Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, and Augusta Dental
Society. He is a Faculty Member of the Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University and
has contributed to many research projects and journals. His efforts have been
recognized with many awards and being voted as one of Augusta‘s Top Dentists by the Augusta
Magazine.