Sedation
What if you could have all your dentistry that you have been putting off for years in the conventional dental office in one or two comfortable visits?
What if you could finally receive all of the treatment while sleeping- free of fear and pain?
We specialize in Sedation Dentistry and Sleep Dentistry, treating people with dental phobias and anxieties We offer different types of sedation dentistry. These include administering oral sedation, a pill, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and intravenous sedation to deliver a combination of drugs. All this depends on the needs of the patient.
In this way the patient and the dentist are comfortable providing and receiving the best possible dental care-safe, and free of stress and pain.
What is Sedation Dentistry or Sleep Dentistry?
The patient is given oral medication about one hour before your appointment. The medicine puts you in a light state of sedation and you sleep thru your dental appointment. It is Safe! When you awaken your dental treatment is completed.
You need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. Once you arrive, you are allowed to rest comfortably in a warm, quiet room under a cozy blanket. During the entire time you are here, we will closely monitor you to ensure your safety.
Complex dental treatments that often require six or more appointments can be done in as little as one!
All while you sleep.
Oral Conscious Sedation
If the idea of going to the dentist for a procedure brings on feelings of fear or anxiety there are options to ease the anxiety. Oral conscious sedation is as easy as taking an aspirin and you will feel relaxed and at ease. Oral conscious sedation does not “knock you out” like some other forms of anesthesia. You will remain awake during your procedure, but you will be in a heightened state of relaxation. It is also possible that you will not remember part, or all, of your procedure.
Oral conscious sedation is extremely safe and easy. It is much less expensive than other forms of sedation, and you will be able to talk and breathe on your own during the procedure. It also makes long or complex procedures seem shorter, allowing you to have all of your work done in a single visit. As an added precaution a local anesthetic will be given to the area that is being worked on to ensure that there is no pain. You will need to have someone drive you to and from the office if you use oral conscious sedation for your safety.
Don’t wait any longer to have necessary dental work performed because you are nervous. Ask your dentist about oral conscious sedation to see if it is right for you.
Anxiolysis
Anxiolysis is a form of oral sedation using a light sedative, such as valium. It is not as strong as oral conscious sedation, so it is recommended for those with mild to moderate anxiety. You will remain conscious for the procedure, but any tension and anxiety will fade away. You will be able to talk and breathe on your own during the procedure as well. What can be a nerve-racking experience for some is morphed into a relaxing experience.
Sedation Q & A
Who is a candidate for sedation?
If you have anxiety or fear about going to the dentist you are a candidate for sedation dentistry. If you have a fear of pain, have had a traumatic dental experience in the past, or the sounds and smells of a dental office make you nauseous, sedation dentistry can help you get over your anxiety.
Some people have physical reasons, like a bad gag reflex or very sensitive teeth, which make them a candidate for sedation dentistry as well. If you are not sure if you are a candidate ask your dentist.
Will I be unconscious?
No, but you will be in a deep state of relaxation during your treatment. You will still be able to breathe on your own and communicate, but you will not feel any pain or anxiety. You may not even remember the procedure afterwards.
How long will I be sedated?
Sedation can last from about 2-6 hours depending on the strength of sedative you are given and how long your procedure takes.
Will I be monitored?
Yes, at all times during your sedation someone will be with you. We also monitor your vitals to make sure they remain at a normal level. Safety is of the utmost importance to us.
Are there any long term effects of sedation?
No. You will feel a little groggy and “out of it” after some forms of sedation, but after a few hours you will feel like yourself again. You will need to have someone drive you home from your appointment in these cases.
What procedures can be performed under sedation?
Just about any procedure can be performed with sedation. The sedation is not for the procedure itself, but for the anxiety that accompanies the procedure. Ask your dentist if sedation is available for a particular procedure.
Will my insurance cover sedation?
In most cases it will not be covered by your insurance provider. We will review your insurance coverage and let you know if it is covered or not. If it is not covered, we will let you know the cost and, if necessary, we can put together a financing plan for you.