Sedation Dentistry
If dental anxiety or fear has kept you from getting the care you need, sedation dentistry can transform your experience. Whether you struggle with anxiety, sensitivity, or difficulty sitting through long procedures, our safe and effective sedation options allow you to receive treatment in a relaxed, stress-free environment. From mild sedation with nitrous oxide to deeper sedation for more complex procedures, we tailor every approach to your comfort level. Don’t let fear stand in the way of a healthy smile—schedule a consultation today and discover how sedation dentistry can make your visit completely worry-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax and feel at ease during dental procedures. Depending on the level of sedation, you may remain fully awake but relaxed or be lightly asleep with little memory of the treatment. This approach is especially helpful for those with dental anxiety, strong gag reflexes, or sensitivity to dental work.
Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients who:
- Experience fear or anxiety about dental procedures
- Have difficulty sitting still for long appointments
- Have a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth
- Struggle with a strong gag reflex
- Need multiple procedures in a single visit
If any of these apply to you, sedation dentistry may help make your experience more comfortable.
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when administered by trained professionals. Our team follows strict guidelines set by the American Dental Association (ADA) and tailors sedation levels based on your medical history and needs. Before treatment, we’ll review any health conditions or medications to ensure your safety and comfort.
We offer different types of sedation based on your comfort level and procedure:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): A mild sedative inhaled through a mask, allowing you to remain awake and alert with quick recovery.
- Oral Sedation: A prescribed pill taken before your visit to induce relaxation while keeping you conscious.
- IV Sedation: A stronger sedation method administered through an IV, providing a deeper state of relaxation with little to no memory of the procedure.
It depends on the level of sedation. Mild sedation (nitrous oxide or oral sedation) keeps you awake but relaxed. Moderate to deep sedation (IV sedation) may cause you to drift in and out of sleep, but you’ll still be responsive. You won’t be completely unconscious unless general anesthesia is used, which is rare in most dental procedures.
Recovery time depends on the type of sedation used:
- Nitrous oxide: Wears off quickly, allowing you to resume normal activities immediately.
- Oral sedation: May take a few hours, so a companion should drive you home.
- IV sedation: Effects can last several hours, requiring rest and supervision after your procedure.
Before your appointment, we’ll provide full post-sedation care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
In any traumatic dental injury, time is of the essence. Contact your endodontist immediately.
