Oral Sedation

What is Oral Sedation?
For the lower end of oral sedation, you take a pill, typically Halcion, which is a part of the same prescription family as Valium, and it is usually taken about an hour before the procedure. The pill will make you feel drowsy, though you will still be conscious.
A larger dose may be given to produce a more moderate level of sedation. Some people become groggy enough from mild oral sedation to fall asleep during the treatment. They ordinarily can be awakened with a gentle movement.
Sedation dentistry is not limited to dental phobia patients alone. It is especially useful for people who have:
We offer different options for sedation dentistry. Find out what's best for you.
Read more about how to identify your level of dental fear in our blog,
“Sedation Dentistry Can Easily Defeat Your Dental Anxiety”.
What Can You Expect with Oral Sedation
I had a somewhat routine procedure completed but was still very nervous. They took the time to explain exactly what was going to happen and how they were going to manage my pain. It was so comforting to be in such good hands. Everyone from the front desk to the hygienist to Dr. McMillan himself simply was amazing!
Cristen B., Actual Patient
Oral Sedation + Compassionate Care = Total Relaxation + Healthy Smiles

The emotional response of anxiety or fear from imagining a dental visit is sometimes the result of either a personal negative experience or hearing scary renditions by someone else. Perhaps it’s a dread of embarrassment should someone comment on the neglected state of your oral health.
How can Dr. McMillan help?
Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from having the confident smile or healthy mouth you’ve always wanted. Contact our Burke sedation dentistry dream team at Burke Centre Dental Arts today!
What Do You Want To Know About Oral Sedation?
- Does oral sedation hurt?This type of sedation dentistry is a painless administration. Before your appointment, you will take a pill and you will be relaxed before you even sit in the dental chair. You will be conscious and responsive throughout the entire procedure, but you will be so relaxed that you might believe the procedure took only a few minutes.
- How does oral sedation feel?The anti-anxiety pills administered by Dr. McMillan bind with the receptors in your brain that are responsible for fear and tones them down a few notches. Depending on the dosage and type, you’ll experience a calming effect, drowsiness, minor amnesia, and tingling sensations.
- Will I be able to drive home?No, you should not drive for 24 hours until the medication leaves your system. Someone will need to accompany you as a safe ride to and from your sedation appointment and stay with you for the remainder of the day.