What medical procedure uses oral sedative drugs to reduce a patient's fear during dental care?

Oral sedation dentistry involves the administration of sedative medications taken by mouth to help patients relax during dental procedures. This method is particularly effective for patients who experience anxiety or fear related to dental visits. By using orally administered sedatives, dental professionals can create a calm environment, allowing patients to receive necessary treatment while feeling more comfortable.

In contrast, general anesthesia renders a patient completely unconscious, which goes beyond mere sedation. Local anesthesia numbs a specific area of the mouth but does not address anxiety. Narcotic sedation typically refers to the use of narcotic (opioid) medications, which are not typically the first line for managing anxiety in dental settings compared to oral sedation options. Thus, oral sedation dentistry is specifically designed to reduce patient anxiety effectively while allowing them to remain awake and responsive during their treatment.