Sedation Dentistry

We know that not everyone considers a trip to the dentist an enjoyable experience. For some, the fear and anxiety has kept them away for years.

We understand that a trip to the dentist can be a difficult experience for some people. Shots, drills, and the use of all the necessary instruments can create anxiety. But now, we can alleviate all the fears and worries of the dentally challenged. With conscious sedation dentistry, these patients will become calm and not remember the treatment.

Signs of Dental Anxiety

• Missed regular cleanings or checkups
• Ignored obvious teeth problems
• Avoided scheduling fillings, root canals, crowns
• Consistently used over the counter medications to deal with tooth or jaw pain
• Feel anxious about scheduling an appointment

We are one of the few dental offices in the state qualified to administer a full range of sedation options, including IV sedation. We also offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for lighter sedation. We offer this array of options to let all of our patients feel comfortable and relaxed throughout their dental treatments.

What pain management options exist for dental procedures?

Modern dentistry uses a combination of the latest tools and techniques, along with pain management protocols, to render most procedures virtually pain-free. Here are some pain management options.

Local Anesthetic: Local anesthetics such as lidocaine are injected into the mouth before nearly any dental procedure. Many dentists now use a topical numbing gel first to avoid the sting of the injection.

Sedation Dentistry: From mild nitrous oxide to moderate IV sedation, we can use medications to help you relax and even doze during your procedure.

Over the Counter Painkillers: Most dental procedures result in only mild to moderate pain, which generally responds well to over the counter medications such as Tylenol or Advil.

Prescription Painkillers: For some procedures, such as wisdom tooth extraction, we may prescribe stronger painkillers. Be sure to take them as directed to stay ahead of the pain, and carefully follow all instructions such as avoiding alcohol and taking the pills with food.

What are my sedation options for dental care?

Our most popular option is a single pill you take an hour before your appointment. Your relaxation will increase and anxiety will diminish by the time you sit down in the dental chair.

You will still be aware enough to answer questions from Dr. Schnabel and his assistants. We continually monitor your vital signs throughout your visit. When your appointment is complete, a friend or family member will drive you home. After about an hour, you’ll be alert and back to normal.

Unlike sedation for surgery, you are not totally unconscious, just unaware of the work being performed. This level of sedation works well for those who have a greater fear of being completely “put under.” This fear is typically based on relinquishing control. That’s why conscious sedation works well for most patient anxieties.

Other patients may need to have more work completed in a single visit. They cannot make repeated visits to the dentist, so accomplishing more work in one longer visit with suitable sedation accommodates their needs. And then some patients are resistant to anesthesia and need conscious sedation in addition to the regular anesthesia to have dental work performed. If you typically have a gag reflex, sedation can help you through your dental procedures.

We are one of the few practices in the state qualified to administer a full range of sedation options, including IV sedation. We also offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for lighter sedation. We offer this array of options to let all of our patients feel comfortable and relaxed throughout their dental treatments.

Dr. Schnabel is certified to administer various levels of sedation that meet your needs and the appropriate dental procedure you require. We suggest scheduling multiple procedures in the same visit.

Levels of sedation include:

• Minimal sedation: You’re awake but relaxed.
• Moderate sedation: You’re more relaxed and may not remember much of your procedure.
• Deep sedation: You are deeply sedated but can be awakened quickly.
• General anesthesia: You are completely unconscious.

In addition to the type of sedation you are prescribed, you’ll also need a local anesthetic to assist with any discomfort associated with your specific procedure.

Our motto for sedation dentistry is, “Open wide and relax.” We want your experience to be worry free, anxiety free and become a turning point in your approach to the health of your teeth. Ignoring or avoiding dental care can lead to other, more serious, conditions. We want every patient to have the brightest smile and healthiest teeth possible. Sedation dentistry and the variety of options we can provide are our commitment to making your visit as comfortable as possible.

Call our office at (912) 354-1366 to determine how sedation dentistry can make your dental visit comfortable and relaxed.