We understand that fear is the big reason people avoid dentists. It is our utmost desire to stamp out anxiety once and for all and provide our patients with state-of-the-art care in a relaxed environment.
But sometimes more than a relaxing atmosphere is needed. Enter, sedation dentistry.
Sedation dentistry means you don’t need to be afraid or anxious about a dental visit ever again. We have options to make it easier for you to relax in the dental chair and forget your fear.
Nitrous Oxide
Better known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide gives you a mellow, floaty feeling. You’re still totally conscious and aware of the procedure taking place, but without the anxiety. It also has a mild analgesic (pain-killing) effect, as well.
You simply inhale the gas through a nosepiece throughout the procedure. Once your dental work is done, we administer oxygen for a few minutes. After that, you’re good to go. There are no after-effects, and you’ll be able to drive yourself home on your own.
If you have issues with breathing or any kind of claustrophobia, nitrous may not be a great option for you. But if you’re looking for a drug-free way to “take the edge off” during dental treatment, it can be a big help.
Oral Conscious Sedation
If your dental fear is so big that it routinely keeps you from getting the care you need, oral conscious sedation offers perhaps the best solution. In fact, you may wake up surprised to discover that your appointment is over!
Dr. Willock is DOCS-certified to provide this type of sedation.
After an initial consultation, we simply schedule you to take a medication called Triazolam before your visit. Similar to Valium, it temporarily depresses your central nervous system, helping you relax. Because of this, you will need to have someone bring you to and from your appointment. You will not be able to drive.
While you’re in the dental chair, we will monitor you constantly. You’ll be thoroughly relaxed and not feel a thing.
We want your dental care to be something you embrace, not something you dread. Let us know your needs, and we’ll do all we can to help.
