Sedation Dentistry

SEDATION DENTISTRY

Sedation Dentistry enables us to provide needed dental care to those who otherwise would not receive it.

We recognize that there are many reasons why 50% of the U.S. population do not receive dental care, but two of the most common reasons are:

Extreme anxiety
No time for multiple appointments

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Dentistry is when either nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and/or oral medication are used to help relax you during your dental appointment.

With Sedation Dentistry, many patients find that their treatment is performed more comfortably than you might ever thought possible.

Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Dentistry is especially useful for adult patients who:

Have high anxiety about dental visits
Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
Have difficulty getting numb
Have a strong gag reflex
Have TMJ troubles and cannot open their mouth for extended periods
Are afraid of needles
Have sensitive teeth
Hate the noises and/or smells associated with dental care
Simply do not have the time for multiple visits

What to Expect

After an initial consultation, it will be determined what type of sedation dentistry will be best for you.

If you choose nitrous oxide sedation, no special arrangements will need to be made.

If you desire more profound sedation (oral sedation alone or in combination with nitrous oxide), you will need to arrive one hour prior to the start of your dental treatment to have your blood pressure taken and to be given your medication.

After your dental care is completed, you will need to have a companion drive you home because you will not be able to drive yourself. Your companion will not need to be at our office during your treatment, they only need to be available at the end of treatment to drive you home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be unconscious?

No, you will be very relaxed, but you will be able to respond.

Will I have an IV?

No tubes or needles are necessary for the sedation. You just simply breath a gas and/or swallow a pill.

How long will I be sedated?

The effects of the gas go away very quickly after it is turned off.
The effects of the medication usually last from 6 to 8 hours.