What is Sedation Dentistry?
Are you or a loved one terrified of visiting the dentist? If you’ve considered skipping a routine check-up or procedure due to fear, anxiety, or stress, you’re not alone.
More than every one in ten people have fear of visiting the dentist or undergoing a dental procedure, preventing them from getting the care they need. This can result in serious consequences, like gum disease, tooth decay, or even tooth and bone loss.
Sedation dentistry is a simple, effective way to make your visit stress-free. However, it can be useful for numerous reasons, including:
- Dental anxiety or phobias
- Previous negative dental experiences
- Low pain tolerance
- Bad gag reflexes
- Receiving an extensive procedure
- Sensitive oral nerves
- Fear of dental tools
Why Choose Sedation?
Choosing sedation from our Southpark dental implant provider, Dr. Martin, means investing in the best patient-first dentistry in Charlotte, NC.
Your comfort is our priority, which is why Dr. Martin and our team will ensure that you feel safe and comfortable throughout your entire visit. We may offer nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation to ensure your time with us goes smoothly and that you feel little to no discomfort or anxiety.
Best of all, you’ll leave our office with a smile that you can’t get anywhere else.
Causes & Symptoms of Dental Anxiety
Dental fear or anxiety can arise for a variety of different reasons. While pain is the most common reason people fear the dentist, others include helplessness, embarrassment, and past traumatic experiences.
Dr. Martin recommends sedation so that patients with dental anxiety and phobia can get the essential dental care that they deserve. Signs that you may benefit from dental sedation include:
- Being tense before an appointment
- Feeling anxious, nervous as you’re waiting
- Becoming scared at the sight of dental instruments
- Trouble breathing or feeling panicked in the office
If you have any concerns or fears, let us know so we can provide a solution, and you can get the dental care you need in a safe, care-free way.
Our Safe Sedation Methods
Nothing should get in the way of you getting the dental care you deserve. At ART Dentistry, we feature two types of dental sedation: nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is excellent for anyone who suffers from a mild to moderate form of dental anxiety. This gas is a fast-acting, safe, and effective way to administer relief.
Laughing gas doesn’t cause drowsiness. Instead, it induces a dream-like state that allows you to remain calm throughout your procedure. Upon completion, Dr. Martin will supply you with oxygen, which restores your sensory function.
If you choose nitrous oxide, there’s a chance you may be able to drive yourself home following the procedure.
Oral Conscious Sedation
An hour before your scheduled appointment, you’ll take a small pill which will help you feel relaxed upon arrival. This form of sedation is ideal for anyone with moderate to severe anxiety.
While you’re awake for the procedure, you’ll feel calm and at peace. It’s common for patients to forget most of their visit. Since this form of sedation is stronger than nitrous oxide, you will need someone to drive you home following your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a candidate for sedation?
If you have anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist or your upcoming procedure, you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry. We also provide sedation for patients with a bad gag reflex or sensitive teeth.
Will I be unconscious?
No, you will not be unconscious from sedation, but you’ll be in a deep state of relaxation during your procedure. With sedation, you’ll still be able to breathe and communicate without feeling any pain or anxiety. It’s likely you may not remember the procedure once it’s finished.
How long will I be sedated?
Dental sedation can last from two to six hours, depending on the type and strength of the given sedation, along with the length of your procedure.
Will I be monitored?
Yes, you will be monitored throughout the entire process. Our staff will also monitor your vitals to ensure they remain at a normal, healthy level.
Are there any long-term effects of sedation?
There are no long-term effects of sedation. It’s likely you’ll feel groggy and dazed after sedation, but after a few hours, you’ll feel completely normal. We recommend planning a designated driver to take you home following your procedure.
What procedures can be performed under sedation?
Almost any procedure can be performed with sedation. Dental sedation isn’t used for the procedure, but rather the anxiety and worry that comes with it. It’s best to ask if sedation is available for your procedure during your initial consultation.
Will my insurance cover sedation?
In most cases, insurance providers don’t cover sedation, but we’ll review your coverage to let you know whether it’s covered. If not, we’ll give you an estimate of the cost and help put together an affordable financing plan to ensure you get the treatment you need.
Learn about Dental Sedation Today
Ready for a New Smile?
At ART Dentistry, we focus on creating personalized treatment solutions in a comfortable, friendly environment.
Learn more about adding dental sedation to upcoming dental implant placement by calling us at (704) 557-0424 and we’ll get back to you right away. Our staff can also schedule you a free consultation with our Charlotte, NC dentist so he can explain our sedation methods in detail.