Feeling anxious about dental care is common. At Pickens Family Dentistry, we take time to listen to your concerns and offer sedation options to help you feel more relaxed during treatment.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry at Pickens Family Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is perfect for those who have dental anxiety, extreme teeth sensitivity, decreased sensitivity to local anesthesia, or other conditions. We offer sedation dentistry at our dental office to provide a safe and relaxing environment when it comes to dental procedures. Here are some benefits of receiving sedation dentistry:

Anxiety relief
Pain relief
Reduction of gag reflex
Faster treatment
Increased comfort
Positive dental experience

Dental Sedation Is Meant to Help You

Dental sedation allows for the patient to feel comfortable and relaxed when undergoing a dental procedure. Sedation allows patients to feel less anxious about their dental treatment while also providing pain-free dental care. Dental sedation practices allow for a safe and effective way to treat patients efficiently in their office.

Feel More Comfortable Getting the Care You Need

Dental anxiety, a busy schedule, or concerns about cost can make it difficult to schedule a visit. At Pickens Family Dentistry, we listen without judgment and work with you to make dental care more manageable.

Regular exams and cleanings help us identify concerns early, often before you notice symptoms. Delaying care can allow problems to progress, including:

Plaque and tartar buildup: Plaque forms continually on teeth. When it hardens into tartar, professional cleaning is needed to remove it.
Tooth decay: Cavities can grow over time and may require more extensive treatment if left untreated.
Gum disease: Untreated gum disease can damage the tissues and bone supporting your teeth and may lead to tooth loss.
Dental pain or infection: Some problems develop without pain at first. Waiting until a tooth hurts can mean fewer treatment options.

If anxiety has kept you from scheduling, we can discuss sedation options and other ways to help you feel comfortable. Together, we can create a plan that fits your needs and moves at a manageable pace.

What Types of Sedation Do You Offer?

Here at Pickens Family Dentistry, we provide nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and conscious oral sedation to help you feel relaxed, comfortable, and at ease throughout your dental treatment.

Conquer your dental anxiety! Call our office today and schedule an appointment to talk about our sedation dentistry options.

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What Is Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)?

Oftentimes, patients come into the dental practice feeling anxious about their dental procedures. Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) is a clinically tested and safe sedative agent that is used to help calm patients.

Nitrous Oxide is administered with oxygen and inhaled using a mask. This type of sedation will not put you to sleep. It only has mild effects that allow for relaxation during medical procedures. If you receive Nitrous Oxide as a sedation treatment, you will still be able to drive home right after your appointment and continue with your daily routine.

What Does Laughing Gas Feel Like?

Many patients often wonder what laughing gas might feel like. Most patients experience mild light-headedness, a numbing feeling throughout parts of the body, and a tingling sensation that might cause you to react with laughter. You will still be able to retain the ability to communicate with your dentist through the dental treatment.

Can You Still Feel Pain with Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)?

Nitrous oxide will affect the nervous system in your body which can dull your pain sensitivity. Laughing gas is used to help take away the anxiety patients might feel during a dental procedure. However, local anesthetic may still be used to make your mouth completely numb.

Nitrous oxide can be used to help dull the pain, but some patients will still feel mild discomfort.

What Is Conscious Oral Sedation?

Conscious oral sedation is a safe, medically managed technique that uses prescribed sedative medications to help you relax during dental treatments. You’ll remain awake and responsive throughout your procedure but will feel deeply at ease, eliminating dental anxiety and making your experience more pleasant.

Benefits of Conscious Oral Sedation:

Reduces anxiety: Helps reduce anxiety and alleviate fear associated with dental procedures.
Enhances comfort: Allows for a more relaxed, pain-free experience.
Ideal for complex procedures: Perfect for longer or more involved treatments.
Safe and monitored: Administered and supervised by qualified dental professionals.

Conscious Oral Sedation Dentistry at Pickens Family Dentistry

Conscious oral sedation is an excellent option for patients who experience dental anxiety or want a more relaxed, comfortable experience during procedures. This type of moderate sedation helps you feel calm, at ease, and carefree throughout your visit. Sometimes called “twilight sleep,” conscious oral sedation allows you to remain awake and responsive while creating a sense of forgetfulness and insensitivity to pain. You’ll be relaxed enough to feel little to no discomfort, with minimal memory of the procedure.

For patients who feel they need a bit more support, conscious oral sedation can be combined with laughing gas (nitrous oxide) to enhance relaxation and comfort during the procedure. This combination provides an added level of tranquility, ensuring a stress-free experience tailored to your needs.

How Conscious Oral Sedation Works in Our Office

At Pickens Family Dentistry, conscious oral sedation is safely administered in pill form, with common options including Halcion or Ativan. The sedative is taken in our office, approximately 30 minutes before your scheduled procedure, to ensure it takes full effect and helps you feel calm and relaxed. Our team closely monitors your vital signs throughout the treatment to ensure your safety and comfort. You’ll remain conscious, relaxed, and able to respond as needed, allowing for a seamless and worry-free dental experience. After your treatment, you may feel drowsy and will require a driver to take you home, as the effects can linger for a short time. Choose conscious oral sedation for your next dental visit and experience quality care without stress or discomfort. Contact Pickens Family Dentistry today to learn more or to schedule your consultation!

Let Us Help You Feel More Comfortable With Dental Care

If anxiety has kept you from scheduling treatment, we are here to listen and help. Contact Pickens Family Dentistry to discuss your concerns, learn about our sedation options, and plan a visit with your comfort in mind.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT