Eliminate the Fear – Improve Your Health!

Sedation dentistry takes the fear and anxiety out of your dental visit. Fear causes some people to wait to schedule an appointment until small problems become big ones. This can lead to more serious health problems, too. Using sedation dentistry can help. Here’s how it works:

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Although it is sometimes called “sleep dentistry,” you will be awake during your procedure. There are varying levels of sedation, ranging from minimal (awake, but relaxed) to moderate (may slur your words, and not remember much of the procedure).

The relaxation medications are fast-acting and are used along with numbing medicines, keeping you pain-free. Doses are based on your age, your level of anxiety, and the expected length of your procedure.

The Day of Your Procedure

About an hour before your procedure begins, your dentist will give you a pill. The drug most commonly used in relaxation dentistry is Halcion, which is in the same drug family as Valium. Following your procedure you will stay in the clinic until the dentist determines that you are OK to go home. Because the dosing is so accurate, wait times are minimal.

Your dentist will help you decide whether you should take a small dose of Valium the night before your visit, to keep you from worrying, and to help you get a good night’s rest before your procedure.

We want your experience to be a positive one, and for you to get dental care when you need it, without having to summon up the courage. If fear or anxiety is keeping you from scheduling an appointment, ask us about our pain-free dentistry.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

You will need to have a driver take you home after your appointment. If you used sleep medications the night before, you will also need a driver to bring you to your appointment.