If the thought of seeing a dentist fills you with anxiety, you’re not alone. Studies show that more than 75% of Americans feel the same. In fact, up to 10% of adults in the United States are so fearful, they don’t go to the dentist at all – and that can lead to serious oral and general health issues.
When you visit us at Seasons Dental, we want you to have an agreeable, pleasant experience, whether you’re here for a cleaning or a more involved procedure. We have several sedation options we use to help patients combat any anxiety or stress they may feel when coming in for an appointment.
WHAT IS SEDATION DENTISTRY?
Sedation dentistry is your solution for worry-free, pain-free dental care. At Seasons Dental, we use the safest, most reliable methods available to calm your anxieties. We want you to feel at ease while we give you a beautiful smile. Our sedation dentistry options can calm you during any procedure, helping you to feel relaxed and carefree, instead of anxious and stressed.
TYPES OF SEDATION DENTISTRY
We use various types of sedation dentistry to help ease your anxiety, including laughing gas, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.
LAUGHING GAS (NITROUS OXIDE)
Laughing gas has been in use for decades because it so reliably (and quickly!) calms anxiety in patients. The laughing gas is administered to you through a mask which fits comfortably over your nose. As you breathe in the gas, you’ll start to feel more relaxed, but you’ll also remain conscious during your procedure.
Laughing gas wears off quickly, so you can drive yourself to and from your appointment with no problem.
ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION
Oral conscious sedation is administered as a pill you can take right before dental procedures. Patients who choose oral conscious sedation will experience a deeper level of relaxation than with laughing gas, but will need a loved one or friend to drive them home after the procedure is complete.
IV SEDATION
For our patients who want to be more deeply sedated, we offer IV sedation, which is extremely effective and safe. As the name implies, you’ll receive the sedation through an IV and soon feel deeply relaxed and comfortable. You’ll have little to no memory of the procedure.
As with our oral conscious sedation option, you will need to find someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sedation Dentistry
Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is ideal for individuals who experience anxiety or fear during dental visits. It’s also helpful for patients with a strong gag reflex, low pain tolerance, or those needing longer procedures. A consultation with your Burley sedation dentist will determine your eligibility for sedation dentistry.
Are you completely asleep during sedation?
Not always. Most sedation options keep you relaxed but awake and able to respond to your dentist. You may doze off, but a slight nudge is enough to awaken you. Only general anaesthesia renders you completely unconscious, which is used for special cases.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. Sedation dentistry is very safe when performed by trained professionals. First, we’ll conduct an in-depth consultation to determine your suitability for sedation. This includes reviewing your medical history, current medication, and past interactions with sedation. Second, we monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to maximize your safety and comfort.
Will the dentist still use local anesthesia with dental sedation?
Yes. Sedation helps you relax, while local anesthesia numbs the treatment area so you don’t feel any pain. They work together to make your visit as comfortable as possible. Our dentist carefully follows strict protocols for sedation and anesthesia to ensure your safety throughout your visit.
Do you feel pain under sedation?
No. You’ll be calm and comfortable, and the area being treated will be completely numb. You won’t feel pain, regardless of the procedure.
How does it feel to be under sedation?
Being under sedation feels calm and peaceful. You’ll feel deeply relaxed, and time may seem to pass quickly. You will remain awake but won’t feel anxious or bothered by what’s happening around you. Many patients recall little to nothing about the procedure, except that it felt quick and stress-free.
How long will it take the sedation to wear off?
It depends on the type of sedation used. Mild sedation with nitrous oxide wears off quickly after treatment. However, deeper sedation with oral or IV sedation may take a few hours. Our team will advise you when it’s safe to drive or resume normal activities.
Will insurance cover sedation dentistry?
Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance policies may cover sedation if it’s medically necessary, such as for extensive procedures or severe anxiety. Others consider it elective and may not cover it. Since each policy is unique, it’s best to verify your benefits with your insurance provider before treatment.
How much does sedation dentistry cost in Burley, Idaho?
You guessed it right! The cost depends on the type of sedation and the length of your procedure. At our office, we are always transparent and upfront about costs. Our team will provide a cost breakdown after consultation. We’ll also discuss different payment options to make your treatment as affordable as possible.
Is there a sedation dentist near me in Burley, Idaho?
Do you have dental anxiety? You can enjoy dentistry again with sedation dental care at Seasons Dental. Our dentists offer multiple sedation dentistry options tailored to your unique needs. Call (208) 430-9555 and schedule your consultation today! We are conveniently located in Burley, Idaho, but we welcome patients from Rupert, Malta, Raft River, Deary, Richfield, Jackson, Heyburn, Hansen, Paul, Oakley, Acequia, Minidoka, Murtaugh, and beyond.
Call or email us today with any questions you have about sedation dentistry or to set up an appointment!
