Sedation dentistry is dentistry that is performed on patients using a variety of sedation techniques. This can include the use of Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) Oral sedation, IV sedation and General Anesthesia, depending on the situation.

Procedures that can be done using dental sedation can include : fillings, Porcelain Crowns, Dental Bridges, extractions, Dental Implants, oral surgery, Porcelain Veneers, root canals and deep cleanings.

Sedation dentistry is right for anyone who has any of the following issues:
A High fear of having dental treatment
Past experience in the dental office that was traumatic
Patients who have a difficult time getting numb
Patients with a limited amount of time to have their dental treatment completed
People with very sensitive teeth
People who have a very strong gag reflex
Patients who hate needles and shots
Patients who hate the sounds and smells associated with dental care
People who are embarrassed about their teeth

Most importantly, sedation dentistry works. It is very safe and you will have little or no memory of the experience. Depending on the type of sedation, you will sleep during the appointment for however long the procedure takes. Because you are sleeping, work that normally might take 6-8 appointments can be completed in 1-2 appointments. Sedation dentistry is a safe way to reduce the fatigue that can accompany extended dental treatment that requires long visits.

Nitrous Oxide or laughing gas is a safe gas that is administer with oxygen to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is somewhat like having a two-martini lunch, but once that gas is stopped, the patient returns back to normal. Nitrous oxide is the most commonly used form of Dental Sedation.

Oral sedation involves the use of one or more oral sedatives or anti-anxiety drugs. Generally the patient is given a pill prior to their appointment and has a companion bring them to the office. When they arrive, they are usually drowsy and placed in a very comfortable dental chair with a blanket. Their vital signs are monitored and the dental treatment is completed.

IV sedation or Intravenous sedation involves the use of an IV line to inject sedative, anti anxiety and pain medication into the body. Usually this will completely knock the patient out. After the patient is sedated, the dentist performs the necessary procedures, and the patient is awakened at the completion of treatment.

General Anesthesia is reserved for patients who have extreme fear, severe dental surgery issues, or patients who may be medically compromised in some manner. This form of Dental Sedation should only be performed with a dentist and/or anesthesiologist who are certified.

Does the patient feel any pain?
No, nothing will be felt at all using Sedation Dentistry.

Will the patient be unconscious?
It depends on the type of Sedation Dentistry used. With Nitrous oxide, oral sedation and IV conscious sedation, the patient is conscious, but sedated. With General Anesthesia Sedation Dentistry, the patient is unconscious.

Is the patient monitored?
Yes with all types of Sedation Dentistry except Nitrous Oxide, the patient’s vital signs are monitored using sophisticated monitoring equipment.

How long will the patient be sedated?
That depends on the individual’s needs. Sedation Dentistry can last anywhere from 2-6 hours.

Does the patient need to have someone accompany them?
Patients don’t need to have a companion for just Nitrous oxide. However, all other types of Sedation Dentistry require that the patient have someone with them due to the sedative effects of the drugs.

Imagine having all your dental treatment completed in just two visits while you sleep peacefully. While we are working, you are dreaming with sedation dentistry. No worries or cares in the world. Before your visit you are given a little blue pill to take that will sedate you through your appointment.

Your companion will accompany you to our dental office. When you arrive, you will be very drowsy. You will relax into a very comfortable chair, covered with a thick, warm cozy blanket. Your vital signs will be monitored. After you are comfortable, our experienced clinical team will take care of your dental needs. When your treatment is completed your companion will return you home to finish your relaxing sleep.

"Our goal is to complete your dental treatment in a relaxed, comfortable environment that will allow you to obtain the ultimate in oral health without any fear or worries." - Dr. A. Patric Cohen