Answers to questions about sedation dentistry

What is sedation dentistry?

Many people fear the dentist. Whether it's a fear of pain or the noise of the drill, dental phobias are one of the most common phobias. With sedation dentistry you can relax and have your dental treatment done without fear or anxiety.

How will you sedate me?

There are different levels of sedation:

Nitrous oxide sedation, commonly known as laughing gas, is one of lightest methods. People who simply feel uncomfortable with the dentist enjoy this type of sedation because it helps them to relax but wears off immediately.

Oral Sedation is the preferred method of sedation used in our office. The sedation is accomplish with pills. These pills are given at a dose that is right for you depending upon your size and your health and the medications you are taking. With oral sedation you can take a pill an hour before your appointment and arrive feeling sleepy. You will have virtually no memory of the day. Oral sedation is safer than many other methods of sedation because you are breathing on your own the entire time. There is little risk of overdose because the dosage is low and the medication is considered safe and effective for short term use as a sedative. You are also able to respond and move but will probably not remember.

Will I feel any pain?

You will not feel pain during the treatment because a local anesthetic will be administered as well. This is used to numb the area and to put the nerves in the area to sleep.

Will I be monitored?

Yes, our office uses pulse oximetry to monitor your oxygen levels throughout treatment. We also monitor your blood pressure and make sure that you are hydrated and cared for during treatment.

How long will I be relaxing?

Normally procedures last the morning from about 2 to 6 hours.

Will someone need to accompany me?

You will need a driver and someone to stay with you for 24 hours after sedation to make sure that you do not fall or harm yourself.

What type of dental treatment can you do while I am sedated?

We can perform years of dental work in as little as one visit. Examples of procedure that we can complete in one visit are:

All porcelain Cerec Crowns - made while you rest

White Fillings, gum treatments, root canal, extractions and we can perform whitening or place brackets for braces

Other dental procedures that we can perform but will take more than one visit include implants, and veneers which require us to send work out to DaVinci Dental Lab in California.

If you've been putting off the dentist, Haddonfield Dental is the place for you! Give us a call today and you'll be on your way to a dazzling smile!