Understand Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It's sometimes referred to as "sleep dentistry," although patients are usually awake, with the exception of those under general anesthesia.

The primary goal is to significantly reduce or eliminate fear and anxiety, allowing you to receive the dental care you need in a calm, stress-free manner. Think of it as a way to make your dental visit more comfortable and less anxiety-inducing. Sedation options can range from mild relaxation to a deeper state of reduced consciousness.



Depending on the method used, you might feel mildly relaxed or reach a deeper level of sedation where you have little to no memory of the treatment itself.

Sedation Dentistry Options We Offer

We offer sedation options designed to meet varying levels of anxiety and procedural needs. Dr. Kostas will discuss the best choice for you during your consultation.

IV Sedation

IV (intravenous) sedation is a highly effective method of sedation. It involves administering anti-anxiety medication directly into the bloodstream through a vein.

This allows for rapid onset, precise dosage control, and a deeper level of predictable relaxation throughout your procedure.

Patients undergoing IV sedation typically feel completely relaxed and comfortable, often described as being in a "twilight sleep." While you remain conscious and able to breathe on your own, you will likely be unaware of the dental procedure and have little or no memory of it afterward. It effectively eliminates anxiety and discomfort.

IV sedation is an excellent choice for patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety or phobia, those undergoing long or complex procedures (like dental implant placement, multiple restorations, or surgical extractions), or individuals who have difficulty getting numb with local anesthetic alone.

IV sedation allows us to often complete more necessary treatment within a single, comfortable visit.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative pill shortly before your dental appointment. The medication helps reduce anxiety and induce a state of moderate relaxation.

You will feel drowsy and significantly more relaxed than usual, though you will remain conscious and will be able to respond to instructions. Some patients may experience mild amnesia regarding the procedure.

Oral sedation is suitable for patients with mild to moderate anxiety or those undergoing shorter, less complex procedures who desire more relaxation than nitrous oxide alone provides. Please remember to have a friend or family member escort or drive you home.

Nitrous Oxide ("Laughing Gas")

Nitrous oxide is a safe, breathable gas mixed with oxygen and administered through a comfortable nasal mask during your dental procedure. It takes effect quickly, inducing a feeling of calmness and well-being.

You'll feel relaxed and slightly euphoric ("floaty") but remain fully conscious and aware. The effects wear off very rapidly once the mask is removed, typically allowing you to drive yourself home safely afterward.

Nitrous oxide is best for patients with mild anxiety, shorter appointments, or those who simply want to "take the edge off" during routine dental work.

Ideal Candidates for Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry can be a life-changing solution for many individuals. Consider sedation in the following cases.

• You have high dental fear, anxiety, or phobia (dentophobia).

• You have had negative or traumatic dental experiences in the past.

• You need complex, extensive, or lengthy dental procedures.

• You have difficulty achieving profound numbness with local anesthetic alone.

• You have a sensitive gag reflex that interferes with treatment.

• Physical limitations (like back or neck issues) make long appointments uncomfortable for you.

• You need to consolidate multiple treatments into fewer appointments.

Advantages of Choosing Sedation Section

Choosing sedation dentistry offers significant advantages:

• Overcome Fear: Enables you to receive essential dental care without the distress of anxiety.

• Enhanced Comfort: Allows you to undergo procedures with minimal to no awareness or discomfort.

• Efficiency: Often permits more dental work to be completed comfortably in a single visit, saving you time.

• Better Outcomes: A fully relaxed patient allows Dr. Kostas to perform procedures with maximum efficiency and precision.
  

Safe, Monitored Sedation Administered by Experts

Your safety and well-being are our highest priority during any sedation procedure. Thanks to modern anesthetic methods and rigorous protocols, sedation dentistry is a very safe option when administered by trained professionals.

• Our provider is specifically trained and certified to administer IV sedation safely and effectively.

• Throughout your entire procedure while under sedation, your vital signs – including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels – are constantly monitored using advanced equipment.



• We adhere to the highest standards of patient safety and emergency preparedness, ensuring you are cared for responsibly at all times..
  

What to Expect with Sedation Dentistry

We strive to make your sedation experience smooth and predictable:

• Consultation: We'll begin with a thorough discussion of your medical history, dental needs, and anxiety levels. Dr. Kostas will explain the suitable sedation options, answer all your questions, and confirm if you are a good candidate.

• Pre-Sedation Instructions: You'll receive clear, specific instructions to follow before your appointment. For IV sedation, this typically includes fasting for a set period and arranging for a responsible adult escort to drive you home.

• Sedation Appointment: You'll arrive with your escort. The sedation medication will be administered, and continuous monitoring will begin. Once you are comfortable and in a state of deep relaxation, Dr. Kostas will perform the planned dental treatment, often using local anesthetic as well to ensure complete numbness.

• Recovery & Departure: After the procedure, you'll rest comfortably in our office under supervision until the main effects of the sedation wear off and you meet discharge criteria. Your escort can then accompany you home.

• Post-Procedure Care: We'll provide instructions for rest and recovery at home. Plan to relax for the remainder of the day.