Sedation Dentistry
Try as we might, it is practically impossible to undo the deeply-rooted emotional trauma that causes dental phobias. Whether you are gripped by a lifelong fear of the dental office or your anxiety just won’t allow you to sit still in the dental chair for more than a few moments, emotional stress can stand in the way of the dental care that you need.
We want you to know that we understand your concerns and you can depend on the full support of our team for help. We offer sedation dentistry to quiet your fears and boost your courage. There are various methods for achieving the appropriate level of sedation, and your options will be based upon your health and the extent of your anxiety.
Sedation dentistry can help you to overcome your fears, making your dental procedure more pleasant than you may have previously imagined.
Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective solution for patients who experience dental anxiety, fear, or discomfort during dental procedures. By using carefully controlled sedation techniques, patients will remain calm, relaxed, and comfortable while receiving the care they need. In many cases, patients have little to no memory of their procedure, making it ideal for individuals who avoid the dentist due to past negative experiences. Sedation can be used for routine cleanings, restorative treatments, cosmetic procedures and complex dental surgeries. In our office we provide two types of sedation:
- Oral conscious sedation: Medication taken by mouth prior to your appointment to induce deep relaxation while remaining responsive. You will need a driver responsible to take you to and from your appointment.
- Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas): A mild anxiolytic inhaled through a mask that has a quick onset but is also flushed out of your system by breathing oxygen for a few minutes so that you feel back to normal after your appointment. You are able to drive yourself to and from your appointment.
Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate sedation method based on your medical history, anxiety level and treatment needs.
Contact our team today to learn more about making your upcoming visit as soothing as possible.
Common Sedation Dentistry Questions
What is dental anxiety and phobia?
Dental anxiety and phobia is a severe dental fear that can keep people from seeking even routine treatment, such as dental exams and cleanings. It can result from a previous negative experience with a dentist or from buying into misperceptions fed by others around you.
Unfortunately, dental fear and phobia can result in a vicious cycle, as delaying routine care makes it more likely that a patient will experience an urgent issue requiring treatment that could reinforce the dental phobia. Fortunately, sedation dentistry can help patients who suffer from dental anxiety and phobias to access the care they need in a relaxed setting.
What is conscious sedation for dental work?
Conscious sedation for dental work allows patients to achieve a deep state of relaxation that feels almost sleep-like, although the patient does remain awake while under the effects of the sedative agents. This approach helps patients overcome dental fears in order to receive necessary treatments, and because they are conscious for the duration of the appointment, they are able to respond to commands and requests from the dentist.
Conscious sedation also eliminates the need for artificial airway maintenance used with general anesthesia, and the patient is monitored for signs of distress throughout the appointment. Conscious sedation can be achieved with oral medications or nitrous oxide, and you should discuss your sedation options with your dentist to choose the method that best meets your needs.
What is laughing gas?
“Laughing gas” is the common term for nitrous oxide, which is a colorless gas inhaled by patients to help them relax. Nitrous oxide is administered to the patient throughout the appointment, and its effects are reversed quickly afterward. This is one of the safest sedation options available to patients, although its effects may be too mild for it to be effective for certain procedures. Feel free to ask our dental team if laughing gas would be a good choice for you.
How much does sedation dentistry cost?
The cost of sedation dentistry will depend on the sedation delivery method chosen by the patient. Because it is considered a supplemental service, dental insurance providers often do not cover sedation. We will review the costs of sedation dentistry with you in more detail at your consultation.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. Sedation dentistry is considered very safe when administered by trained dental professionals. Patients are closely monitored throughout the procedure, and medical history is reviewed beforehand to ensure suitability.
Will I be asleep during sedation dentistry?
Most forms of sedation dentistry keep you conscious (awake) but deeply relaxed. With oral conscious sedation you will be in such a relaxed state you will feel asleep, and have little to no memory of the appointment, all the while being able to respond to verbal cues throughout the appointment.
Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation is ideal for patients with dental fear, sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex difficulty sitting still or those needing extensive dental treatment.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?
Coverages varies by insurance plan and the type of procedure being performed. Some plans cover sedation when medically necessary. Your dental office can verify benefits prior to treatment.
Is sedation available for children?
In our office, Nitrous oxide will be the go to option for anxiolysis for children.
How long does a sedation appointment last?
Times for these appointments vary greatly. If you need very little treatment, a shorter acting sedation method like Nitrous oxide may be your best option. If you have a lot of treatment to tackle, Oral conscious sedation may be the way to go, usually lasting 4 hours or so in duration. We adjust our recommendations to fit your needs and wants.