You should consider Sedation Dentistry if...
- You have high fear and anxiety about dental treatment.
- You have had traumatic experiences in the past.
- You have sensitive teeth or difficulty getting numb.
- You have a severe gag reflex.
- You have complex dental issues or limited time to complete treatment.
- You are fearful of needles.
- The are fearful of the noises, smells, and tastes associated with dental care.
Facts about Sedation
- You will be given a small pill to take before your treatment
- It is proven to be safe and effective.
- It allows you to consolidate several appointments into one.
- Patients are easier to numb when they are relaxed.
- Though your appointment may be long, you will feel as if you were here a very short period of time.
Conscious Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is administered in the form of a small pill taken by mouth. When given under the supervision of a qualified dentist, it is a safe and effective way to reduce the anxiety often associated with dental treatment. Oral sedation is more effective and will deliver a state of deeper relaxation than other forms of sedation.
When you are ready to schedule your treatment, you will be given a prescription for the sedative. One pill will be taken the night before your appointment and one an hour before. Any additional doses will be given as needed by your supervising doctor. The medication will make you feel relaxed and drowsy, but you will still be awake and able to communicate with our staff. A long appointment is made to feel like minutes, and you will have little recollection of your time here.
IV Sedation
Intravenious sedation is administered through a drug given directly into the vein. IV Sedation is a safe and predictable method to be used when deep sedation is desired. Extreme relaxation and a state of amnesia is achieved through IV sedation. IV sedation is administered by a qualified practitioner into a vein close to the surface of the skin, generally in the arm or back of the hand. IV drip delivers anti-anxiety medication which puts the patient into a state of deep relaxation. It will also produce either partial or full memory loss for the duration of the appointment. Time will appear to pass very quickly and you will have little or no memory of your dental treatment.
During your consultation the doctor will review your dental and health histories to decide if sedation is the right choice for you.