Sedation Dentistry

Relaxed woman laying in spring grass with flowers in her hairDo you avoid your dental appointments out of fear? Would you rather live with a severe toothache than go anywhere near a dental chair? Don’t feel bad. You are not alone! There are many people who suffer from odontophobia or dental anxiety. Fortunately, sedation dentistry can help.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry focuses on helping patients relax with the use of medication. We combat dental anxiety with sedation that meets your specific needs.

Types of Sedation

  • Nitrous Oxide – Nitrous Oxide is also known as ‘laughing gas’. It is colorless and has a sweet scent. The nitrous oxide is delivered through a mask and relaxes your body. You remain conscious and able to hear and respond throughout the procedure. The effects wear off once we remove the mask.
  • Oral Sedation – Oral sedation comes in the form of oral medication. Common among these are diazepam, triazolam, and lorazepam. In general, we recommend you take this medication one hour prior to your appointment. Oral Sedation lasts longer than nitrous oxide and you should not drive after your appointment.
  • Deep Sedation – We work with a nurse anesthetist to administer IV deep sedation. With deep sedation, you won’t be fully unconscious, but you will sleep through the procedure and likely will have little or no memory of it. With deep sedation you will feel groggy and tired most of the day and will not be able to drive. Please call the office if you would like additional information.

Benefits of Sedation

  • Faster Appointment – Your dentist can usually work faster when you are sedated since you are not nervous and fidgety.
  • Lower Anxiety – Sedation is a great way to relax during your procedure!
  • Improve Oral Health – If you normally skip your dentist appointments out of fear, sedation dentistry can be a big help. Your oral health can improve when you attend all of your scheduled dental appointments.

Does Insurance Cover Sedation?

What insurance can cover is varied. We are happy to look over your policy and discuss your coverage with you!

How it Works

When you make your appointment, let us know that you are interested in sedation. For oral sedation, we will discuss the options with you, go over your insurance coverage, and explain the procedure for getting a script. If you choose nitrous oxide, it will be administered prior to and during your procedure.

Don’t Let Fear Stand In Your Way!

At Ponderosa Dental Group, we do not want anything to stop your treatment. Whether you schedule a cleaning or a root canal, we are ready to discuss sedation choices with you. Take the first step and make your appointment today!